How Hospice Quinte supported one family through caregiving, hospice care, and grief.
When Cindy’s husband Larry became ill, she spent years caring for him at home. Like so many caregivers, she did everything she could for the person she loved most. But caregiving can be exhausting.
There were days when she felt isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure how she would keep going. Hospice Quinte was there through caregiver support, respite services, hospice care, and grief support. Every step of that care was provided free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our community.
This summer, we’re sharing Cindy and Larry’s journey because it reflects the experience of many local families. With her permission, we’ve reproduced her letter below.
A letter from Cindy
Dear Friend,
When my husband Larry became ill, I never imagined how long our journey would be. For years, I cared for him at home. I did everything I could for the person I loved most. Caregiving can be exhausting. There were days when I felt isolated, and unsure how I would keep going.
Then Hospice Quinte came into our lives.
Through caregiver support and respite services, Hospice Quinte gave me something I desperately needed: the chance to breathe. They provided a listening ear, practical support, and reassurance during a time when I often felt alone. Hospice Quinte helped me realize that being a caregiver didn’t mean I had to carry everything by myself.
As Larry’s illness progressed, his needs became greater than I could manage by myself. Making the decision to move him into Hospice at the Stan Klemencic Care Centre was one of the hardest choices I have ever made.
It was also one of the best.
They gave me the gift of being Larry’s wife again instead of his caregiver. I was able to spend precious time at his bedside, holding his hand, sharing memories, and simply being present. I will forever be grateful for those moments. None of that would have been possible without the generosity of people like you.
Hospice Quinte was there for every step of our journey. They supported us through caregiving. They cared for Larry at the end of his life. They helped me find my way through grief.
I can never fully express what Hospice Quinte meant to our family. But I hope you will help ensure that other families receive the same care, kindness, and support that meant so much to us.
Thank you,
Cindy
“They gave me the gift of being Larry’s wife again instead of his caregiver.“
Larry, Cindy & Lady
Every family deserves this kind of care
Cindy’s journey is one of many. Every day, Hospice Quinte supports individuals and families facing some of life’s most difficult moments. Whether through caregiver support, respite services, hospice residence care, or grief and bereavement programs, we are committed to ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone.
That’s where you come in
To provide for families like Larry & Cindy, we need your help. Hospice Quinte remains free for every family we serve, but that care is only possible because of people like you. This summer, your gift will help provide comfort, dignity, and compassionate care to those who need it most.
We can’t do this without you.
