In 2017, three generations of my family nervously searched across Ontario for a new home. The priority for the move was finding a healthcare centre for my Dad, Denis Wake (pictured with his wife, Gail).

Living with diabetes for nearly 25 years, Dad’s health was in decline and he needed dialysis. When we saw the world-class healthcare services and facilities available at Providence Care and Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC), my mom and family, including twin sons, all moved from Oshawa to Sydenham to share this journey with him. It just felt right!

Dad’s health was plagued with complications. One side effect of his diabetes was swollen and blistered legs, which made him prone to falls. In March 2020, he fell badly in the bathroom. Luckily, both of my 6’7” sons were home at the time and they were able to gently hoist their grandfather over to his recliner. But we soon learned he had broken his left leg at the hip joint and needed surgery at KHSC.

After the operation, Dad was sent to Providence Care Hospital for rehab; and the staff was absolutely wonderful! This was during the first COVID-19 lockdown so we couldn’t visit, but the nurses went out of their way to make him comfortable. The kindness and care they showed my Dad was truly amazing, and the entire family was so grateful. They even set up video calls with us and when it was his 84th birthday, they made his day as special as they could, signing a card and giving him the celebrations we were unable to give. 

Providence Care and KHSC also collaborated seamlessly to ensure Dad’s safe transfer back and forth between hospitals to continue his dialysis treatment. This was inspiring and very comforting to us.

After two months, the rehabilitation team informed us they were preparing Dad for coming home. But while trying to get into a vehicle, he fell and broke the same leg again. He needed surgery once more. I can only imagine the pain and frustration he experienced that day.

Unfortunately, with further heart problems in May, Dad’s health was deteriorating quickly. His mind was sharp but his body was failing. After speaking with family and healthcare professionals, he made the impossibly brave decision to stop dialysis. To make his last days comfortable, he was transferred to the palliative care unit at Providence Care Hospital and passed away on June 20.

Despite the overwhelming sadness of saying goodbye to my beloved Dad, I was so uplifted by the care we had all experienced. From start to finish it was absolutely incredible. I have so much respect for Providence Care staff and the care they gave us, especially with the challenges of COVID-19. 

It’s hard to describe the profound impact their care and kindness had on our family. We also witnessed the wonderful difference the generosity of donors makes to staff, patients and families. It has given me so much hope for the future of our local health care.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but I also believe it takes a community to care for our elderly. And we certainly chose the right community here in Kingston.