When Love Is the Care Plan: Harry’s Story

What do you do when the love of your life receives a terminal diagnosis?

Harry and his wife were high school sweethearts who married others, only to find their way back to each other later in life. Together for 44 years, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a large, blended family of nine children. So when she—a retired RN with a sharp clinical mind—was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, everything changed.

As the disease progressed, caring for her became a full-time, all-hands-on-deck effort. Medication management alone was a massive undertaking. And while Harry, an Army veteran, and his devoted family were determined to support her, the pressure of doing it all began to take a toll.

That’s when they called us.

Our East Team stepped in. What Harry and his family thought Hospice care meant gave way to something entirely different – relief, comfort, and a trusted team providing and overseeing her care. In turn, Harry and his family were “blessed” with what they needed most: time. Time to be present, to love fully, and to share every remaining moment together without the weight of medical responsibilities.

What Harry calls “a blessing” was really what we strive to offer every family—compassionate care, peace, and dignity. Surrounded by those who loved her most, his wife passed peacefully at home, a gentle smile on her face.

Because sometimes, the most powerful medicine is simply being there—with love.

With his wife’s memory as a guiding force, Harry is a beloved advocate of ours, sharing his wife’s legacy with others who could benefit from Hospice care.