When Rick Sanders first learned his kidneys were failing, the recommended treatment was dialysis. Having watched his brother endure the process, Rick wasn’t sure he wanted to follow that path. “The last thing I wanted to do is spend the rest of my life wandering around hospitals,” he said. Instead, with the encouragement of his doctor and the support of his son, RJ, Rick chose HIA Hospice.
It was a decision that brought both relief and comfort. HIA Hospice has been a joy to work with,” Rick said. “They honestly listen, they honestly care, and they give me the best of their time”. For Rick, hospice wasn’t about giving up. It was about finding stability, peace and more meaningful moments with family.
RJ has witnessed firsthand the difference this choice made with his father. “The quality of life compared to going the route of dialysis has been a lifesaver,” he said. “It’s freed up time to actually just spend together rather than time at the hospital”. That time has meant everything, not only for Rick, but for his grandchildren, who now get to know their grandfather outside the role of “patient.”
Living at home under the care of HIA Hospice has allowed Rick to remain independent while receiving compassionate support. Nurses and caregivers help manage his medications, ease his pain and simply spend time talking with him. “They are definitely in your corner,” Rick said. “It’s been so much easier to manage. I don’t feel I’m carrying all the burden myself”.
For RJ, the experience has also lifted a weight. “Fathers don’t always listen to their sons very well,” he admitted with a smile. “Having the support from medical professionals has made a huge difference, not just for my dad, but for me too”.
Rick now hopes his story encourages others to see hospice as more than a final chapter. “Hospice is not about agreeing to die. It’s about getting a shot at having the best moments that you might have left”.
At HIA Hospice, “Hearts in Action” means being there when every moment matters. For Rick and his family, that has meant many months of peace, connection and the comfort of knowing they are not alone.