Around 18 months ago, a gentleman supported by Aspire Living experienced a change in his bowel habits. His team quickly arranged a doctor’s appointment where a stool sample was taken. The conclusion was that it was likely bowel cancer. Further tests confirmed this diagnosis.
The doctor went straight to end of life care, believing that the surgery required would be too dangerous for a man in his mid-70s. Accepting this decision and beginning palliative care would start the clock on the end of this gentleman’s life. The team, led by manager Mel, strongly disagreed with this assessment.
They believed that the gentleman was healthy, very fit and active for his age, and has a strong level of independence. He also has selective mutism which meant that the team had to be his voice through this situation. The team spoke with the gentleman and his family and shared their own beliefs about his fitness for treatment. They then sought other medical opinions.
The gentlemen went through a fitness test and a treatment plan was built around his current condition. He went in for surgery to remove the mass and recovered well. He was expected to be in intensive care for a week but came out after four days. The team supported him through this process, prepping his hospital passport to advise the hospital staff how to communicate with him. They ensured that he was accompanied by familiar people to make the process as easy as possible.
The team did receive Restore2 Mini training which they say helped give them the confidence to speak their mind with the professionals, although they did specify that without the training they still would have gone ahead given the importance of the situation. They were shocked at the doctor’s opinion and wanted to ask questions on behalf of the gentleman. The situation and the outcome have made them feel proud and validated as a team.
It is no exaggeration to say their actions saved this man’s life. The gentleman is continuing to live his life as he chooses in his own home, supported by his team at Aspire Living.