Why palliative care programs?

Because our experience with the palliative care program made the journey throughout last year one that Rachael and I benefited greatly from, and I want other people who find themselves in similar circumstances to know the benefits of palliative care.

Rachael’s diagnosis was Stage IV Lung cancer with metastases to the brain. It was devastating but Rachael wanted to do whatever it would take to give her more time. While she endured months of radiation, chemo, setbacks, and hospitalizations, we were both cared for by the most compassionate team of doctors and nurses at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center in Sylmar, California.

Among the team of doctors Rachael saw was Dr. Katherine Yu. Dr. Yu oversees the palliative care program at OLV and she can only be described as one of the most caring, calming, and compassionate people I’ve ever met. She was always considerate and kind in talking with us, and honest in her answers to Rachael’s questions about her illness and possible death. I found a “safety net” at that hospital in the comfort provided by all the staff, doctors, and nurses. It is my prayer that anyone, or any family that finds themselves in similar circumstances also find a team such as we had at OLV, and I especially hope you find your own “Dr. Yu” – that is why I want to raise money and support for palliative care programs.