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 Gaining A New Perspective on Hospice Care Irving Seltzer has always understood the philosophy advocated by the Home Nursing Agency Hospice Program, but gained a new perspective after his late beloved wife of 54 years, Joan Seltzer, became a hospice patient. From day one, ensuring Joan's comfort was of utmost importance to her caregivers including Home Nursing Agency Nurses, Lou Ann Clark and Amy Knisely and Home Health Aide, Flo Darr. By working collectively, they assessed all of Joan's needs as well as the family's requests and made immediate arrangements for delivery of a hospital bed while keeping a close eye on Joan's level of pain and discomfort. Pain management is an integral component to the Agency's hospice philosophy of care. “What surprised me was how the hospice team went a step further by making us part of their focus as well. They showed consideration for the entire family nucleus, which left a great impression upon us,” said Irving, whose wife was a devoted mother and accomplished artist. When complications from her illness confronted Joan with a grim timetable, she was insistent on spending her final days at home surrounded by her husband, their four children and four grandchildren. Eventually, Joan would let her family know, through her worsening condition, that she was ready for hospice. “Joan made the choices and it was very important to her and to us that we carry out her wishes. Hospice allowed us to follow through in a comforting manner and I know, unequivocally, that it may not have been possible for us without the direction and assistance from Agency staff. They emerged as a significant support system,” Irving said. According to Irving, the nurses helped the family realize when Joan was in her final hours and helped to prepare the family for what needed to be done. “They gave us the reassurance we needed, especially since no one in our family has a formal medical background. It meant so much to have that type of support and level of compassion during a tremendously difficult time in our lives.” “The nurses, home health aides and therapist knew exactly how to help meet her physical, psychological and spiritual needs. They were attentive, available around-the-clock and understood perfectly what their objective was - to keep Joan safe, secure and as comfortable as possible,” he added. Irving Seltzer has been selected as the Honorary Chairperson for Home Nursing Agency's Summer Party - A Celebration of Life - to be held on Saturday, May 29, 2004 at the Hemlock Estates in Duncansville. Irving's son, Steven Seltzer, President of Phonepower and member of Home Nursing Agency's Foundation, is one of over 10 proud sponsors. The charitable care dollars raised from events like the Summer Party are reinvested right back into local communities and are targeted for the essential needs of in-home hospice care. These dollars also perpetuate the Agency's steadfast mission of providing health care for anyone in need - regardless of their ability to pay. “Our family was fortunate to have an established support system, but we realize not every family has access to the vital care, support or the resources needed when a loved one is facing a life-limiting illness. We know these funds are channeled to the families living right here in our communities,” Steve Seltzer said. 
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