Suddenly, the world falls silent. The heavy burden of a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis reverberates through the room. As you absorb the doctor’s words, the gravity of what lies ahead becomes painfully clear. It’s not just about you—your children, your spouse, and your entire family are drawn into this daunting reality. Where does one even start to navigate such profound life changes? Enter Sister Heidi Thom, the newest addition to Mediclinic Newcastle’s dedicated team, providing essential palliative care services.
For those who may be unfamiliar with the term, the World Health Organization (WHO) defines palliative care as an approach aimed at improving the quality of life for patients and their families who face the challenges of life-threatening illnesses.
It involves the prevention and relief of suffering through early identification and meticulous assessment, as well as treatment of pain and other physical, psychological, and spiritual issues.
Reflecting on her role and the extraordinarily unique service she provides, Sister Heidi stated, “My profession focuses on people’s well-being after being diagnosed with a severe illness. I go to the patient and their family, where we look at the diagnosis, what it means for the person, their family, the steps that need to be taken, and what will be the best options for their quality of life, as well as discussing the forms of treatment available. I walk the entire journey with the person and the family, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable about the situation and the way forward.”
As she accompanies her patients on this journey, Sister Heidi acknowledged the unfortunate stigma often associated with palliative care. “There are those who feel that palliative care is linked to dying. This is not the case. If a person has an advanced disease or illness, they should be offered a layer of support and not walk this journey alone. Through my job, I am also able to help with planning if the patient decides to continue their care at home. I will assist with getting the necessary bed, medical equipment, and everything needed for when the patient is transported home so that they can live out their final days surrounded by their family,” she explained.
It is imperative to emphasise that palliative care focuses on affirming life and regards dying as a normal process.
Therefore, Sister Heidi takes the time to explain to her patients and their families what they can expect in the final days. This approach seamlessly integrates psychological and spiritual care, providing unwavering support to both patients and their families during such challenging times. For palliative care to be truly effective, Sister Heidi stresses the importance of starting to work with the patient and their family from day one to establish a strong relationship, making the process easier and more compassionate.
Now part of the Mediclinic Newcastle team, Sister Heidi believes her role will be a significant step forward for the community. “With me working alongside Mediclinic Newcastle, doctors will now be able to refer patients in need of my assistance. I can work closely with the patients and help them in making informed decisions about their treatments. If a person decides they do not want to pass away in the ICU, Mediclinic Newcastle and I will honour this decision, ensuring that the patient’s wishes and quality of life are maintained,” she stated.
Having previously worked with Hospice in 2009 and undergoing specialised training in palliative care in 2020, Sister Heidi explained that her job entails considerable preparation work. This is why she needs to forge a strong relationship with the patient and their family from the moment of diagnosis.
“I need to discover what works for each individual and their family. It is vital to help them with matters that are often overlooked during this time, such as preparing a person’s last will and testament and ensuring the necessary paperwork for property and possessions is in order, while also addressing a person’s emotional and medical needs.”
Although a career in palliative care may seem daunting, Sister Heidi views it as a profound privilege to accompany terminally ill patients and their families. As per the Sister, this provides them with comfort and compassion during what can be an overwhelmingly difficult journey.
“It can be incredibly challenging at times. I am currently supporting a mother who has an eight-year-old daughter. The mother knows she won’t make it, and the heartache is palpable. You can only imagine the emotional turmoil she faces, as no one wants to leave their child behind,” Sister Heidi shared. She poignantly remarked that it is precisely in times like these that people need steadfast support more than ever.
With Sister Heidi now forming part of the Mediclinic Newcastle team, alongside her ongoing practice, residents can find solace in knowing that both the medical facility and Sister Heidi Thom will be there for them when it matters most.
Join us in welcoming Sister Heidi to the Mediclinic Newcastle team by leaving a message in the comment section below.
