Hospice of the Western Reserve’s Pediatric Team Provides a Lifeline to Families in Need

When a child has been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, Hospice of the Western Reserve’s Pediatric Palliative Care team is a lifeline, giving the family the resources they need to maintain a sense of normalcy during an unimaginably difficult time.

Chris and Emily Hurd with their children (from left) Ryker, Landrie and Brynn

When Emily Hurd was just 13 weeks into her pregnancy, she and her husband Chris received the heartbreaking news that Bennett, one of the twin daughters Emily was carrying, had a fatal birth defect and was not expected to survive long beyond her birth. Miraculously, Bennett survived 17 days.
More than anything, Emily and Chris shared a desire to bring Bennett home along with her twin, Brynn, so their two toddlers would have a chance to meet her, hold her and know she was real. They were able to do that with the specialized support provided by the team.

The pediatric nurse helped the family with medication, changing dressings, feeding and other issues, and was available 24/7 to respond to any medical issues that required an immediate response.

“Our social worker has been an extra layer of support for our toddlers,” Emily said. “There have been some days I have not known how to respond to their questions or their emotions. She is always quick to respond with a tip, a book or an activity. I feel like she’s a part of our family now. She does weekly crafts with our kids, and they look forward to seeing her. They’re always waiting on the front porch when she is supposed to come.

The Hurd family formed a team, Bennett’s Buddies, and walked in memory of their late daughter at Walk to Remember. The event raises funds to support the pediatric team and other HWR services not reimbursed by insurance. Pictured with the family are pediatric nurse and team leader, Jennifer Palmer RN (left) and social worker Michelle Miller.

“I hoped and prayed we would be able to bring Bennett home, but everyone told us we probably would not be able to. To have her for 17 days was just a miracle from God,” Emily said. “We are very grateful for the team’s support.”

In the video below, the Hurd Family talks about how HWR helped them honor their daughter and heal as a family: