When facing a serious illness, many patients and families are overwhelmed by the medical decisions, emotional stress, and physical symptoms that can accompany the journey. At Shirkey Hospice & Palliative Care, we believe no one should go through it alone. That’s why we’re proud to offer palliative care services—an extra layer of support designed to enhance quality of life at any stage of a serious illness.
What Is Palliative Care?
Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a serious illness. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage, and it can be provided alongside curative treatments.
Unlike hospice care, which typically begins when treatment is no longer being pursued, palliative care can begin earlier in the illness, supporting patients who may still be undergoing therapies like chemotherapy, dialysis, or surgery.
A Personalized Approach to Comfort and Care
At Shirkey, our palliative care team includes a compassionate nurse practitioner, social worker, and other support staff who collaborate with your primary doctors to create a plan that meets your medical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
We focus on:
- Pain and symptom management for conditions such as cancer, COPD, heart failure, dementia, or neurological diseases
- Emotional and psychological support for patients and families
- Advance care planning and help navigating complex decisions
- Resources and referrals for community-based services and caregiver support
Whether in the home, a hospital, or a care facility, our team meets you where you are. physically and emotionally, and walks with you through the uncertainty, offering guidance, comfort, and expertise.
When Is the Right Time to Start Palliative Care?
Palliative care is often misunderstood as being only for the end of life, but in truth, it’s never too early to ask about it. If you or a loved one is living with a serious illness and experiencing physical symptoms, emotional stress, or difficulty navigating your care options, now may be the right time.
It’s not about giving up. It’s about gaining support and making each day as meaningful and comfortable as possible.
Our Commitment at Shirkey
We see palliative care as part of our larger mission to provide personalized, compassionate, and comprehensive care to our community. Just as we do with hospice, our team provides care rooted in dignity, respect, and connection. Every patient is more than a diagnosis—they are a person with hopes, values, and stories.
We’re honored to be part of that story, helping to ease the journey for patients and families throughout Carrollton, Richmond, Brookfield, and surrounding areas.
Learn More or Make a Referral
If you’re a patient, family member, or healthcare provider interested in learning more about Shirkey’s palliative care services, we welcome your questions.