A wish come true

When Justin, a hospice patient from a PeaceHealth Peace Harbor supported facility in Reedsport, shared that his last wish was to visit the Oregon coast one more time, Florence caregivers sprang into action to make his wish come true.

Within a week of learning about Justin‘s wish, Shannon DeJean, MSW (PHO Home Health), had coordinated with Reedsport EMTs to arrange for Justin and his former caregiver Sandra Farris, HHA (PHO Home Health) — who he had requested join him — to come together for a “beach day.” Sandra Farris, HHA (PHO Home Health), mentions that she was honored to be a part of his wish and to share this special memory with him.

As someone who has multiple sclerosis — a chronic disease of the central nervous system that can impact daily living activities such as walking — Justin was assisted by eight individuals who carried him to a special spot out on the Oregon coast where he was able to feel the sand on his feet while viewing the ocean waves. Making this experience even more special was when his sister, who flew to Oregon all the way from Prague, came out as a surprise and joined him.

As the “beach day” progressed on, conversation with Justin revealed in the that he used to enjoy riding the dunes — a popular ATV activity of Oregon coast residents and visitors. Upon learning this, EMTs got their ATV quad and trailer and drove Justin from the first to the second beach that they visited that day.

We are so grateful for the amazing caregivers and community partners who worked together to make Justin’s wish come true.