Monday, February 14, 2011

Wonderful Hospitality

How truly wonderful to really be here. It has been a very busy and exciting time with much to learn and many new friends made. The opportunity to b a part of the hospice work has been so enriching . I especially enjoyed the chance to compare notes with my peers both the psychosocial teams and the intake/admissions ladies. It reminds me that despite very different situations the work we do, the caring is always so similar. The home visits were heartbreaking and enlightening. My very firs visit with the sister was a 38yo woman with recent cva referred in the clinic whose family was unaware and "not ready for hospice just yet" making me feel right at home.
The staff and patients have been so warm in welcoming us. Overwhelming kindness is a way of living no matter how difficult their circumstances might be. As Kahlil Gibran wrote kindness ia not a sign of weakness or despair but of strength and resolution. I am so looking forward continuing our journey... gayle

5 comments:

  1. Gayle ~ Glad your trip is going well. Happy Valentine's Day! Love, Jonathan

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  2. we miss you Gayle. stay safe and have fun.
    love, admissions : )

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  3. Gayle...we loved to hear about your admission experience and all your hospice stories....you really communicated the essence of Soweto Hospice's kindness and care.
    We miss you and hope you have a wonderful trip.
    Jane

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  4. Stacey
    I feel as if I am on this journey with you.
    It is heartwarming to read your notes and
    reminds me of why I do what I do.
    Makes me want to go to Soweto. My prayers
    and thoughts are with you and your team
    and everyone that is experiencing health
    challenges as well as their loved ones.
    Happy Valentines Day and know you are always
    in my thoughts and prayers.

    Virginia Monroe-Volunteer Coordinator
    Woodside Suncoast Hospice
    Pinellas Park, Florida

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  5. Happy Valentines Day Gayle!!! So glad to hear that your trip is going well, and that you have had the opportunity to make such a heart felt impact in the lives of others!!! I know the wonderful people of Soweto appreciate you just as much as we do!!! Stay safe, and enjoy the rest of your journey!!! P.S. We miss you!!! Oh, and your picture on here is gorgeous but try not to wear your zebra print too much out in safari country... The lions may try to eat you!!!

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