IN MEMORY OF ROD MCINNES

In October 2020 just days before his 43rd birthday, my husband Rod was diagnosed with Stage IV Colorectal Cancer. We and our sons aged 9 and 14 were in shock. No Signs. No symptoms. In a heartbeat, our family as we knew it exploded. Once the numbness subsided, chaos took over. This was not what we had planned. This was not fair. Where do we go from here? How would we keep our family intact?
Seven months later, Rod was officially in palliative care; our hopes and dreams dashed despite trying countless traditional and holistic treatment options. Then in May of 2021 Rod’s Oncologist Dr. Klimo connected us to Dr. Paul Sugar. A compassionate and committed Palliative Care Specialist, we felt we had won the lottery. He would be there for us and with us from that day forward.
Rod was adamant about dying at home and Dr. Sugar intended to fulfill that wish, as did we. Easier said than done. As Rod’s condition deteriorated, I became aware of my limitations. Our sons were scared and grieving too and also needed my support. Dr. Sugar became our coach, Rod’s voice, advocate and friend through the dying process. As he directed his loving and supportive medical team, the relief was evident on Rod’s face. He smiled for the first time in months. He was home where he wanted to be.
It was a privilege and a gift to carry out the final wishes of our loved one. It took a village of family, friends, neighbors and Dr. Sugar to make it happen. Blessings to all of you who helped us through.
We will never forget.
Love and Gratitude
The McInnes Family
Seven months later, Rod was officially in palliative care; our hopes and dreams dashed despite trying countless traditional and holistic treatment options. Then in May of 2021 Rod’s Oncologist Dr. Klimo connected us to Dr. Paul Sugar. A compassionate and committed Palliative Care Specialist, we felt we had won the lottery. He would be there for us and with us from that day forward.
Rod was adamant about dying at home and Dr. Sugar intended to fulfill that wish, as did we. Easier said than done. As Rod’s condition deteriorated, I became aware of my limitations. Our sons were scared and grieving too and also needed my support. Dr. Sugar became our coach, Rod’s voice, advocate and friend through the dying process. As he directed his loving and supportive medical team, the relief was evident on Rod’s face. He smiled for the first time in months. He was home where he wanted to be.
It was a privilege and a gift to carry out the final wishes of our loved one. It took a village of family, friends, neighbors and Dr. Sugar to make it happen. Blessings to all of you who helped us through.
We will never forget.
Love and Gratitude
The McInnes Family