Rev. Cecil Cowder of Bigler, a retired United Methodist minister and military chaplain, center, is able to remain in his home despite serious health problems thanks to a palliative care program provided by Clearfield Hospital Home Health.

With Rev. Cowder, clockwise, are Don Dinant, hospice volunteer; Josephine Cowder, Rev. Cowder’s wife; and Shirley Bezilla, registered nurse.

Living with a chronic illness isn’t easy. In addition to dealing with physical discomfort and limitations, there are emotional and spiritual issues that one may face.

For Rev. Cecil Cowder of Bigler, a retired United Methodist minister and military chaplain, coping with chronic health problems has been made much easier thanks to Tapestries, a palliative care program provided by Clearfield Hospital Home Health.

“I’m blessed to have such wonderful medical care and to receive that care in my home. That means a lot to me,” Rev. Cowder said.

Karen Warfield, RN, quality manager for Clearfield Home Health, said the palliative care team’s mission is to provide care to home health patients who are not eligible for or accepting of hospice, but still need a holistic approach to alleviate physical, psychosocial and spiritual concerns when facing a life limiting illness.

Mrs. Warfield explained that palliative care is appropriate for patients undergoing treatment for cancer, stroke, diabetes, chronic lung disease, heart disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease and Alzheimer’s disease, among others.

The goal of palliative care is to relieve the pain, symptoms and stress of serious illness. Palliative care is appropriate at any stage of an illness, regardless of prognosis, and it can be delivered alongside curative treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation.

Rev. Cowder has suffered from congestive heart failure for several years. This is a condition in which the heart can’t pump enough blood to the body’s other organs. The weakening of the heart’s pumping ability causes blood and fluid to back up into the lungs, a buildup of fluid in the feet, ankles and legs, weakness and shortness of breath.

Shirley Bezilla, registered nurse with Clearfield Home Health, said these problems can sometimes lead to frequent emergency room vists and hospitalizations. Fortunately for Rev. Cowder, a weekly visit from Mrs. Bezilla has helped him avoid many trips to the hospital.

During her visits, Mrs. Bezilla evaluates Rev. Cowder’s health condition, reviews his medication schedule and monitors his vital signs. She works in collaboration with his primary care physician, Dr. James Davidson, and cardiologist, Dr. Ralph Cardamone.

“Clearfield Home Health does a wonderful job. The benefit to Rev. Cowder is that he is seen by a nurse on a regular basis, and that nurse is in constant contact with me. Working together, we can help keep Rev. Cowder where he wants to be – at home,” Dr. Davidson said.

When time allows, Mrs. Bezilla will play a few hymns for Rev. Cowder and his wife, Josephine, on their piano. They also pray together. The Cowders, who are members of the Bigler United Methodist Church, are grateful for the fellowship.

“Though I receive the best medical care from Shirley, her friendship is what I appreciate the most. She is so kind,” Rev. Cowder said.

Rev. Cowder’s weekly visits with a nurse are complemented by visits from Don Dinant of Allport, a hospice volunteer. Mr. Dinant comes to the home several times a week to help with household chores, take Rev. Cowder for a drive in the country or assist with tasks like planting flowers or picking apples. Most of the time, they talk and reminisce.

“Don is always upbeat and positive. He recently took me for a drive to see where I grew up in Summit Hill and that was nice. I’ve had a lovely life,” Rev. Cowder said.

Mr. Dinant also keeps Mrs. Bezilla informed if he notices Rev. Cowder is experiencing shortness of breath, or if things just don’t seem right. Mrs. Bezilla will make a special visit to ensure Rev. Cowder is OK.

Other palliative care team members available to help patients like Rev. Cowder and their families include social workers, therapists, aides, pharmacists, clergy and bereavement specialists.

Though Rev. Cowder insists he’s the one who benefits most from home health, Mrs. Bezilla and Mr. Dinant said they are equally rewarded through their interaction with him.

“I thoroughly enjoy helping people. Rev. Cowder and Josephine have enriched my life so much and I’m here to help them in any way I can,” Mr. Dinant said.

Clearfield Home Health is now accepting referrals to Tapestries. Patients can be admitted to the program any time symptom control is an issue. Once symptoms are under control, the patient will be discharged to self-care and follow up with their physician.

As the illness progresses and symptom control becomes an issue again, patients may be readmitted to the service, Mrs.Warfield said.

For more information about palliative care, please contact any of these home health offices: Clearfield, 768-2000 or 768-2115; Houtzdale, 378-7689; Mahaffey, 277-6684; Nittany, 237-2600; and DuBois, 371-3100.

November is National Home Care and Hospice Month, which is celebrated as a way to honor professionals that provide home health and hospice services.

“We’re proud of our home care team for its long-standing commitment to delivering high quality health care to local residents. We believe there is no place like home when it comes to healing, and we’re honored to help our patients stay in the environment that’s most comfortable for them,” stated Ame Wagner, home care director.