Community service in action – A Case Study
By Dr. Chitra Weerakkody
From my own experience, I realised that the availability of and help from a healthcare professional at the time of despair when a loved one is dying is an enormous help and, when provided free of charge, there is nothing comparable.
Mr. K P, 87 yrs old, developed a recurrence of throat cancer when he was referred to Sahan Suwa about 12 months ago. He lived with his daughter, who looked after him well. At the time, he was in severe pain and complained of loss of appetite, difficulty in swallowing and was awake most of the night. One of our nurses visited him to review the problems. It transpired that Mr. K P was miserable as he was unable to carry out his favourite past time, which was tending to a small holding of tea in his garden. It was a leisurely activity as well as an income of which he was very proud.
We treated the pain and the mouth problem; and advised regarding mouth care and nutrition. He started eating and was able to get a good night’s sleep. As a result, he was able to enjoy the outdoor life and gardening. A few months later, he started getting fits and was told that cancer had spread to the brain. He refused further active treatment and we took over the palliative care in the community, by treating the fits, managing the pain and supporting the family. The daughter understood his wishes and was happy for SS to care for her father. He died peacefully, at home without pain.
Daughter sent this message after his death. “My father passed away last week. He spent his last months without pain because of your help. May the noble triple gems bless you all” The above story tells us that the pain has to be controlled to improve the quality of life, which is an integral part of palliative care. By doing so we also enabled the patient to undertake activities he enjoys in his last weeks to months, thus improving the quality of life.