Hospice Dream Getaway
Hospice Patient Celebrates 25th Anniversary with a Dream Getaway
Mike Mulé had been married to his soulmate Susan for almost 25 years when he went on hospice. Though the end of Mike’s time on earth was approaching, the truly special love he shared with Susan deserved celebrating.
Knowing that Mike’s time was limited and wanting to make the best of the moments they had together, Susan tracked down an organization called The Dream Foundation that makes last wishes come true for adults with a life-threatening illness, much like the Make-a-Wish Foundation does for children. Mike’s prognosis in mind, the Dream Foundation quickly organized a dream getaway for the loving couple to Galveston.
The Silverado South Houston Hospice team swung into action, each doing their part to make sure Mike was ready and able to take his trip. Libbie, Silverado’s social worker, worked closely with the foundation to make sure everything was in order. Dr. Roosth, the medical director, made sure mike was healthy enough for the getaway. Hospice nurse Cheryl made sure they had all the medications, supplies and portable oxygen concentrator that they would need on their trip, and hospice aide Ebony did a last-minute visit that morning to send him off with a fresh shower and shave.
The three-day trip to Galveston went off perfectly, and the experiences they shared made memories of a lifetime. There was no better way to celebrate their love.
After returning home, Mike’s final decline began, and he died peacefully with his wife and daughter by his side on March 17, 2015. Susan is now comforted by the memories they shared during those very special three days.
To read Silverado Hospice Social Worker Libbie Vaughan’s beautiful article on her experiences and feelings helping with this hospice gift, please click here.
Video credit: Susan Mulé