In sickness, and in health…

Most of the couples that get married pronounce four vows at the altar. Some take them lightly and pronounce them as part of the ritual others take them seriously and know exactly what they are saying.

Emmanuel and Rose Abela of Rabat have had their share of problems in their marriage. However, they say that when there is compromise in a relationship, all difficulties can be overcome.

Recently, Rose was diagnosed with cancer, which left her bed-ridden. It’s a cruel disease, especially for a person who used to be very active in her younger years. Rose, however, copes with it very well and she tells us about her husband’s love and devotion in taking care of her.

Truly a case of “In sickness and in health”, Emmanuel and Rose share their experience with us.

Rose and Emmanuel were helped by the Hospice Movement that donated, among other things, the bed Rose spends her days in.

The Malta Hospice Movement, assesses patients and their families regarding the physical, psycho-social and spiritual needs. The Movement doesn’t automatically contact all those diagnosed with cancer or motor neurone disease (another incurable disease). Doctors, nurses, social workers, family and friends are usually the ones who refer patients to them. There are times, however, when the patients contact Hospice themselves.

After receiving referrals, a nurse goes to assess the patient’s home and the Hospice Movement delivers the services needed as assessed.

The services offered by the Hospice Movement are:

Home Care
Day Therapy unit
Hydrotherapy
Physiotherapy
Complementary therapy
Spiritual support
Occupational therapy
Home carers
Patient transport
Equipment
Psycho- social support
Education
Bereavement

One can donate money to the Hospice Movement through the following bank accounts:

THE MALTA HOSPICE MOVEMENT
HSBC - 085 030 542 051
BOV - 102 106 450 12