Pedro and Juan ...

Pedro (pictured above)was in hospice because of a very large pressure ulcer over his lower back and a fever. We saw him frequently and enjoyed his great sense of humor and New York golf hat. He said we should just take him home with us to the US in our suitcase....no problem if he couldn't fit, he would just cut off his arms and legs. We gave advice about wound care and the good news is that he will likely be discharged in the next week. We'll both miss his humor.


Juan had been at hospice for some time with pulmonary fibrosis. Unfortunately, his condition declined as expected and all appropriate treatments for his disease were being tried. We asked him about his goals and he stated he wanted to be comfortable and not struggle to breathe. We taught the staff about the use of morphine for shortness of breath and helped them transition and accept his wishes that he not go back to the hospital. When we were leaving he had declined further but thanked us for making him more comfortable and tranquil.