Press Releases

Hospice of Charleston In-Patient Hospice Center Provides Peace and Healing

Larry Herring, left, with Hospice of Charleston RN, Bette Strimple.

Charleston, SC --- Betty Herring is described by her husband as a fantastic cook, wonderful grandmother, a lady with a giving heart and a caregiver for the elderly. But, over the last year Betty was the one who needed a caregiver. Her husband of 49 years, Larry, became that caregiver.

Larry said, "I noticed a distinct change in her health in 2007." Soon, Betty and Larry went to the doctor who gave them the diagnosis of lung cancer.

Larry said, "The last two months of her life the cancer was too far gone and she started having a great deal of pain." At that point, Larry knew that he and their children would need help in caring for Betty. After researching their options and talking with Betty's physician, they decided to receive care from Hospice of Charleston, specifically because the inpatient Hospice Center was available for them.

The inpatient Hospice Center was exactly what Betty needed. Larry said, "Betty just kept telling me she wanted to be out of pain and to have peace." Larry feels her needs were more than met with the peaceful, serene setting at the Hospice Center and the caring staff. Larry said, "It was all so professional. The entire building was great and very soothing for not only Betty, but for our children and grandchildren as well." The "visit at anytime" policy at the Hospice Center allows loved ones to come and go as they please, giving families the flexibility needed when the end of life is near.

The benefits of Hospice Care are numerous. Area Vice President for Hospice of Charleston, Tim Heath, said, "We care for patients in their homes, wherever that may be. In addition we have the Hospice Center to care for patients who prefer an inpatient setting and meet the requirements for inpatient level of care. A team of healthcare experts comprised of physicians, nurses, hospice aides, social workers, chaplains and volunteers all work toward a common goal of providing physical, emotional, spiritual and comfort care. Another significant benefit of hospice care is that medications, home medical equipment and supplies related to the hospice diagnosis are paid for by hospice. This can be very significant to families in today's economy."

Hospice of Charleston has four medical directors who have been practicing medicine in the Charleston community for years. Those physicians are Dr. William Wilson, Dr. Scott Lake, Dr. Angus Baker, and Dr. Julia Haile.

Dr. Wilson commented, "Hospice is not just for patients, but for everyone closely involved in their lives. A primary goal in hospice is to begin care for those with a life-limiting illness as early as possible in order to provide comprehensive support. Hospice does not mean the end of life, but rather a different way of living it. I see too many people missing services and benefits to which they and their families are entitled."

Larry Herring is glad that he and his family did not miss having Hospice of Charleston. "The nurses are angels of mercy and I would definitely recommend the Hospice Center to anyone," Larry stated.

Hospice care is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurances. Hospice of Charleston does not discriminate against those without a payer source. For more information about in home care from the Hospice of Charleston or about the Hospice Center call 843.529.3100 or visit the website at www.hospiceofcharleston.org.

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