Palliative care is a compassionate approach that aims to support individuals during their final moments, as shared by Canadian Bishop Noël Simard ahead of an upcoming Symposium on Palliative Care in Toronto.
By Christopher Wells
Bishop Noël Simard emphasizes that palliative care is not about ending someone’s life prematurely. It is about walking alongside individuals as they near the end of their earthly journey, addressing their physical, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual needs.
As the Bishop of Valleyfield, Quebec, Canada, he leads a Symposium on Palliative Care, organized by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Pontifical Academy for Life. In a recent interview with Vatican News, Bishop Simard shed light on the misconceptions surrounding palliative care, especially in a context where euthanasia is legalized as “medical assistance in dying.”
At the heart of palliative care is the holistic care and support provided to individuals approaching the final stages of life. It aims to alleviate suffering and pain while addressing a wide range of needs that each person may have.
The ongoing Symposium, titled “Towards a Narrative of Hope: An International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care,” focuses on promoting quality palliative care and fostering a culture of responsibility in end-of-life care.
Central to the Symposium is the theme of accompaniment, which Bishop Simard explains as assuring individuals that they are valued and loved, that they are not a burden, and that they have dignity that remains intact.
Accompaniment also involves providing a comforting presence, showing compassion, and acknowledging the presence of God’s love and tenderness throughout the journey towards the end of life.
Bishop Simard emphasizes the importance of active listening to individuals, understanding their fears, anxieties, and unspoken sentiments. Accompaniment creates a space for individuals to express their hopes and fears as they approach the end of life.
Additionally, palliative care extends care and support to family members and caregivers who may also experience challenges. The Bishop underscores the necessity of listening to all those involved in palliative care, offering respite when needed.
Spiritual accompaniment plays a vital role in palliative care, helping individuals find solace through prayer and reception of the Sacraments, ultimately preparing them to embrace the next chapter in eternity.
In alignment with Pope Francis’ message of closeness, Bishop Simard emphasizes the importance of being present, holding hands, and reassuring loved ones that they are not alone during their final moments.
