A House With Rooms Like Home
By Rosemary Addison
Todd Horton was named the king of cool. He shook the house with classic rock. He loved music so much that he became known as the “Maxell Tape Blown Away Guy,” from a 1980’s commercial for Maxell audio cassettes. Todd loved life. He was a sensitive, empathetic, and selfless man. He loved his family and his friends.
When they knew that he was near the end of his life’s journey, Todd’s wife, Natalie, was determined to care for Todd at home. Released from hospital, Todd was at home for only two days, when Natalie and their daughters, Kristen and Rachel, realized that care at home was too difficult.
Natalie was opposed to having Todd go to a hospice. She had no knowledge of hospice, thinking that it was basically like a hospital. Yet, when Todd was admitted to McNally House, Natalie felt that they had actually come home. There was the smell of soup simmering, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies. They entered into a warm, inviting atmosphere with a living room, and a kitchen. Staff and volunteers greeted her and Todd with warmth. She could feel the genuine caring. She reflects that, “McNally is a house with rooms like home”, smells coming from the kitchen, a lovely patio, and warm hugs from people who really care. People who have also walked a similar journey.
Natalie speaks fondly about the care that Todd received at McNally. The nurses were always available to answer questions about changes in his symptoms and medications, but they also took time to stay for a while and chat. They came to know Todd’s sense of humour, his interests, and loved listening to him reminisce.
Natalie was particularly touched by being able to stay overnight with Todd. They had been married for 46 years, rarely apart. Those last precious nights of being able to stay together were such a gift. Being able to hold Todd while he took his last peaceful breaths was the greatest gift.
Not only was Todd cared for, but so were Natalie and their daughters. They knew that they could talk about anything in an atmosphere of caring and trust. No question was insignificant, no request an imposition. Time was always taken for them. McNally House does everything possible to help residents and their families feel at home and to treat them with dignity and respect.
Natalie still feels supported by McNally. She has access to weekly bereavement support and knows that she can call any time if she feels the need.
These memories of Todd’s time at McNally House are a source of great comfort to Natalie. Todd loved McNally House and because of this, Natalie wants to share as much about McNally as she can with others, especially for people who do not know what hospice care is all about. McNally is a house. McNally is home.
“How can you not love this place? This place is amazing.”
Government funding covers only 44% of our operating costs. Each year, more than $1.8 million must be raised to ensure our hospice residents and programs remain available to our community.
This season of giving, your donation makes that possible.