Christine Bradley
Palliative Care Practitioner
Obtaining a Bachelor of Social Work from St. Thomas University in 1996, I have worked the last 15 years for the Department of Social Development in various roles. I have developed an awareness of the many needs, community resources and the challenges of navigating the systems. In recent years, I've had a growing interest in Palliative/End of Life work and have taken opportunities to further educate myself by reading and attending available training. I sought training with the Grief Recovery Institute as well as a Hospice organization and follow closely, the growing number of websites on Hospice and Palliative care in Canada. In my private life, I practice self care with meditation, exercise, deep breathing and music. I love to read, camp, kayak or other activities that allow me to be in nature, always looking to balance my need for connection with my desire for solitude/silence. I am humbled to have the opportunity to share in people's journeys and am always an eager learner of life. I make my home along the Saint John river with my family.
Most people will become caregivers - or need one - at some point in their lives. A caregiver is anyone who provides basic assistance and care for someone who is frail, elderly, disabled or ill and needs help. Caregivers perform a wide variety of tasks to assist someone in his/her daily life. Care may be required for months or years and may take an emotional, physical and financial toll on caregivers. Caregiving can be both a rewarding and challenging task. Taking care of yourself is important to prevent burnout.
Caring for someone who is dying adds another level of care-needs for both the dying individual and the care provider. End of life is a time heightened with uncertainty, intense emotions and physical demands for care. Whether you have become a caregiver gradually or suddenly, you may feel alone, unprepared and overwhelmed by what is expected of you. These feelings, as well as other emotions - fear, sadness, anxiety, guilt, frustration and even anger - are normal, and may come and go throughout your time of providing care.
Providing support to the dying person as well as their caregivers, will enhance quality of life and help them prepare for end of life transitions; a time when we are most vulnerable, most in need of understanding and comfort, and most longing for dignity.
I am committed to support that is compassionate, sensitive and respectful of people's life journey. I desire for people to feel accepted, connected and worthy; aiming to be a calming, patient presence and helping people feel comfort and relief from suffering. I wish to strengthen individuals and families to develop care plans that meet their goals, whether it be adjusting to changes in health, lifestyle, roles or end of life. Building on people's strengths and ultimately supporting the person in living each day, creating meaningful lives until the end.
Palliative Care Practice:
Areas of support that I could provide for caregivers, or the frail, elderly, disabled or ill include;
Practical matters - planning care options (location of care, arranging respite and homemaker support), bridging communication between service providers, estate planning, planning for Power of Attorneys, funeral preparations and place of death.
Family issues - dealing with challenges of care, difficult family dynamics, resolving unfinished business, exploring family beliefs and rituals, saying good bye and giving permission to die.
Grief issues - dealing with losses/changes that occur during illness or death, working through emotions of grief, conducting life review (finding meaning and worth in telling one's story), planning for spiritual support, and reconciliation work to aid in the process of letting go of life.
Education and support for caregivers - learning to practice self-care, managing stress, use of relaxation techniques, reviewing tasks of caregiving, exploring and referring to community resources, and engaging in 'present moment living'. [Return]