In Memory of Leslie Adams
March 30, 1940 – February 20, 2025
Christmas of 2024 was an uphill for our Dad. He had been diagnosed with Cancer in June 2024 at which time treatment was questionable as to its value verses quality of life for the time he had. Our Dad chose quality and received some IV therapy to help boost his energy and enjoy the summer at his cabin with his family around.
Dad fought hard to enjoy Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a time of year he enjoyed celebrating with family and especially the food, he loved shopping for the biggest Christmas turkey available. Christmas Day he always looked forward to that turkey, this year, he struggled to try and eat a few bites. We knew his health was failing quickly. Boxing Day he spent in bed, this was always a family day together. The following morning he woke up early throwing up, ‘red and black’ as he described it and he was passing black and bloody stool feeling very sick. The time had come for intervention and this was something we really could not handle ourselves.
While we called for an ambulance because he was so weak, his granddaughter who was home to share Christmas with him reached out to the Lionel Kelland Hospice. Something I had considered investigating but always put it off for another day. The very knowledgeable staff explained the admission process and availability to her.
Upon arrival at the hospital by ambulance, all we wanted was our Dad to be comfortable and not experience unnecessary pain or discomfort. The Doctor that morning was Dr. Steve Combden, he spoke with our Dad and was quite understanding of our Dad’s wishes and he immediately consulted Dr. John Campbell. In a world where we hear nothing but negative talk of healthcare, our experience was nothing but care and compassion.
Our Dad was transported to the Lionel Kelland Hospice where his next journey began. When our family’s world was crumbling the caring compassionate staff along with Dr. Campbell welcomed our Dad with open arms. Not only did they ensure our Dad was comfortable in new surroundings but the entire time they were making sure we, our family were doing Ok as well. That first evening after Dad was settled I did not want to leave him. As our family were leaving the nursing staff assured us that he would be cared for and that we would need our rest for the days ahead. Of course, I was afraid where Dad was confused and in a different environment, that he could get up and try to climb out of bed, as he was used to being very independent. They immediately showed us, turned on the bed alarm and assured me, he had his buzzer and if he moved to try and get out, the alarm would go and they would be there in seconds. They also did checks every hour or more if required.
To jump ahead, our family did not anticipate our Dad welcoming the New Year 2025. Dad’s family including grandchildren and great grandchildren were able to spend time with Grandpa in his room at the Hospice. After a week of the absolute best of care, in a way our family could not possibly provide, including some medication changes, our Dad began to bounce back. He started eating a little and was actually enjoying each day. The staff, each one special and unique in such caring ways became like family to our Dad, ‘Pop’ as they lovingly called him. Every morning before we arrived he as washed and shaved wearing clean pajamas, something always very important to our Dad and our family. He enjoyed his favorite breakfast with cream of wheat and soft or over-easy eggs carefully prepared by Corey and the kitchen staff. Dr. Campbell was always pleased to know our Dad enjoyed his breakfast and meals. Our Dad loved food and as eating, became difficult, Corey the chef came to ask him if there was anything, he could prepare or make for him.
Our Dad’s stay became longer as he appeared to gain strength and have a desire to live. He enjoyed walking out to the 4 Seasons Deck looking at Hodges Hills in both the sunlight and the moonlight. Nothing was too much for the compassionate caring staff to do for our Dad or us. You could often hear them laughing with him and our Dad loved to make people laugh even if it
was sometimes embarrassing for us! They truly loved him. The pleasure his bubble baths gave him as it helped his tired achy body feel better was never too much trouble. Our Dad’s care was second to none and our family who lived out of town stayed at the amazing Hospice Family Suites so they could be close by and not have to travel the highway especially in winter. We were able to enjoy meals together with our Dad or downstairs while Dad was receiving his care or resting. There was always coffee and pastries for anyone visiting. The last few days we all shared together with our Dad gave us peace to know he was resting comfortable. We will never forget the final day and send off for our Dad as his battle was over and he was finally resting in peace. We know you missed him that evening as much as we do each day.
We cannot mention each one who provided such special care and emotional support, as we would not want to miss someone. Our Dad appreciated each of you and loved to tell his visitors of the tender loving care he was receiving from the staff and volunteers. During his stay, we met and talked with many families who were dealing with losing their loved ones. The conversations were always around the personal compassionate care and impeccable treatment they too were receiving.
Dr. Campbell you are amazing and the respect and thoughtfulness you gave our Dad was exceptional. To you all, there are no words to express our Thanks for the care you gave our Dad and each one of us.
Many thanks for being there to listen to me as I left each night, as I often needed to just ‘talk’ before leaving, for this, I will cherish each of you.
Caring with compassion is a skill that comes from the heart.
Merina LeMessurier
“Caring with compassion is a skill that comes from the heart.”
Merina LeMessurier