Grampa’s New House
By Rosemary Addison
Ron Oliver’s grandchild loved coming to McNally House to visit Grampa. There was room to spread out toys. There were plenty of homemade cookies, and warm welcoming smiles. “Grampa’s new house” was a great place!
After a prolonged hospital stay, Ron was sent home. It did not take Ron and his family long to realize that managing his care and pain was difficult. They spent more time being caregivers, rather than being a family. After making the decision to seek hospice care, Ron was admitted to McNally House. Alissa, Ron’s daughter, remembers that on the day Ron was admitted the welcome they received was like a breath of fresh air. “Everything took my breath away. Everything was so cozy, homey, warm.”
Ron acknowledged that he and his family had made the right decision. He loved his large room where his family could be comfortable when they visited, where his grandchildren could be themselves. He loved the beautiful patio just outside his room. Most of all, he loved the feeling of being part of a “family” community with staff and volunteers. His daughter, Alissa, was astounded that Ron began to eat again, no longer needing a feeding tube. It took a bit of time for Ron to be convinced that he did not have to pay to stay at McNally, and that there was no time limit for his stay.
Alissa and her fiancé were to be married in August. She wanted her father to give her away, yet Ron’s physical condition was fragile. They contemplated signing a simple marriage document in her father’s room at McNally so he could be there. Sarah Pepper, Director of Care at McNally House, heard about this, and immediately the McNally team of staff and volunteers went into action. Flowers were ordered, music was chosen and a wedding cake made. A special place in the garden was prepared and an officiant was called. Alissa and Kevin were married two days later in an outdoor ceremony at McNally with her father in a wheelchair looking on.
“McNally House went above and beyond,” comments Alissa. Ron was over the moon: “McNally is one hell of a place.”
Debbie also talks about the care that she had received and continues to receive. She has made new friends with other residents’ family members. She has joined a drumming group as part of the bereavement program.
As Ron left McNally House on the day he died, the song “I Will Always Love You” was played. That’s how Debbie, Alissa and their family feel about McNally House Hospice. The feeling is quite mutual. Grampa’s new house will always be there for them.
Alissa says that she knows that the care Ron received was “beyond exceptional.” In his last few days, Ron wanted Debbie and Alissa to make sure that they take every opportunity to recognize McNally for its work. For Alissa and Debbie, honouring that wish means sharing their story and the profound impact McNally had on their family.