Spirituality is as individual as a fingerprint. We all have our own needs, desires and wants when it comes our personal experiences with beliefs around life and death. Being diagnosed with a terminal illness often causes people to think about death, loss, grief, and the meaning of life in ways not contemplated before. 

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Spiritual practice, including religion, may become more important to someone as they approach the end of their life. These needs are connected to physical, emotional and social needs. Some studies have suggested that spiritual well-being may even affect suffering at the end of life.  Spiritual care therefore is very important when caring for someone with a terminal illness.

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Common Misconceptions About Spiritual Care

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“What if I’m not a religious person?”

 You do not need to be religious to benefit from spiritual care. Spirituality is about finding meaning, value, and connection, especially during times of difficulty.

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“Will you try to convert me?”

No. The Quesnel & District Hospice Palliative Care Association is a non-denominational organization. We respect your spiritual and religious beliefs. We are not here to change anyone.

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“Is spiritual care only for someone who is dying?”

No. Spiritual care is for everyone seeking personal growth or coping with change, illness, or loss.

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“Is spiritual care available for healthcare employees?”

Yes. Spiritual care is available for all patients, families AND staff.

 

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When to Ask for Spiritual Care

 

Religious or spiritual services and rituals can be arranged at the request of patients, family members or staff. 

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Services you can ask for is

• In response to a request from a patient, family member, or friend

• When faith, spirituality, meaning-making, or all of these together is obviously important

• When a patient, loved one, or staff member seeks a religious or spiritual ritual

• When a patient, their family members or everyone involved, is struggling with impending surgery, prognosis or diagnosis, death and dying, or significant loss

• When a patient or their family’s spirit seems troubled

• When the treatment team requires a religious or spiritual assessment of a patient

• When a patient is separated from or has few visible supports

• When a patient is close to death or has died

• When staff seek support to identify internal or external resources when faced with workplace challenges

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Who Do I Contact for Spiritual Care?

 

If you are looking for spiritual help in the Quesnel area, click on the logos or phone numbers below.  

Also, as of September 2024 Northern Health has hired a Spiritual Care Lead who will be developing spiritual care access in Northern Health. The Provincial Health Services Authority has made available Virtual Spiritual Care Access. Click Here to see two posters: One is for advance illness and the other one is MAiD informed. ​​

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