All articles tagged with #hospice care
TikTok creator Sydney Towle, who documented her battle with stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) for more than a year and inspired over a million followers, has died at 26. Her family announced the death in a social post, noting she passed after entering hospice, following surgeries, chemotherapy, and a tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte trial while she kept sharing updates and messages of gratitude with her audience.
Sydney Towle, a 26-year-old TikTok creator documented for sharing her battle with stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma, has entered hospice care with her family by her side after nearly three years of treatment, including chemotherapy and a tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte trial; her brother Austin announced the update on TikTok, noting that she is surrounded by friends and family and that she has attracted more than 1 million followers who have followed her journey.
Catherine and Jonathan Hume say Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice transformed their son Daniel’s last months after an occupational therapist suggested the care; Daniel, diagnosed with osteosarcoma at 14, died aged 16 in March 2024. The story highlights gaps in awareness and access to pediatric hospice care in Wales, echoed by a new report describing a fragmented health and care system and the need for earlier, clearer conversations about hospice options. The Welsh government is pursuing a new commissioning approach and funding model to improve access and sustainability across Wales.
Kelly Lee Curtis, the older sister of Jamie Lee Curtis, died at 69 from natural causes after a week in hospice; Idaho’s Blaine County Coroner’s Office confirmed the cause and said she would be cremated with her husband John Marsh present. Jamie posted a heartfelt Instagram tribute, celebrating Kelly’s generosity and warmth. Kelly had co-founded Liberty Films in Idaho and was known for philanthropic work, leaving behind her husband, sisters, brother, and extended family.
Michael Jordan surprised and comforted his ill former Laney High School teacher, Ms. Etta, by FaceTiming with her from hospice in Wilmington, NC, fulfilling her wish to connect with the NBA icon and creating a memory that his former teacher’s family says they’ll carry forever.
Barney Frank, the former Massachusetts congressman and architect of Dodd-Frank, has entered hospice care in Maine and is preparing a book that repudiates the Democratic Party’s progressive wing, arguing that Democrats must explicitly reject far-left positions to win elections while reflecting on his legacy and continuing to influence policy debates, including his support for Maine Gov. Janet Mills in the Senate race.
A British couple on the Camino de Santiago experienced worsening stomach pain for husband David, 71; after returning to the UK, he was diagnosed with incurable pancreatic cancer and died about two weeks later, spending 12 days in hospice. His wife, Tacey, is fundraising for St Peter's Hospice through the Tour de Bristol to support end-of-life care.
Carol Kovatch, a longtime Rincon Valley Middle School Spanish teacher in Santa Rosa, has been diagnosed with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare and fatal neurodegenerative condition. After months of tests and a brain MRI confirming the diagnosis, the 64-year-old is set to begin hospice care as her family and community rally to support her and cover care costs through a GoFundMe.
Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz, 89, has moved into hospice care at his Florida home. A family statement released by Kevin Holtz on behalf of his siblings requests privacy and emphasizes daily comfort and quality of life, while noting the Hall of Fame coach’s storied career—249 wins, six programs with bowl appearances, and honors including the College Football Hall of Fame induction and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Notre Dame coaching icon Lou Holtz has entered hospice care at 89, a family source told ABC57. Holtz mentored Notre Dame to the 1988 national title during his 1986–1996 tenure, later became a longtime ESPN analyst, and also had a brief NFL stint with the Jets; he is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.
Veteran Hollywood actress Sally Kirkland, known for her roles in films like 'Anna' and TV shows such as 'Murder, She Wrote,' has been placed in hospice care due to her battle with dementia. At 84, she has faced multiple health issues, including fractures and infections, and has received financial support through a GoFundMe campaign after losing much of her career earnings in the 2008 financial crisis.
Veteran actress Sally Kirkland, known for her extensive career in film and TV, has been placed in hospice care due to dementia and health complications, with a GoFundMe campaign raising nearly $60,000 to support her medical expenses.
The author reflects on her experiences caring for her aging parents with terminal illnesses and dementia, leading her to consider the importance of planning her own death on her terms, inspired by Swiss assisted dying options and the desire for personal control over end-of-life decisions.
Sara Long, a 26-year-old mother from Savannah, is preparing her four-year-old daughter Riley for her impending death due to a rare kidney disease. Despite battling the condition since age 13 and undergoing a failed kidney transplant, Long remains positive, cherishing the time spent with her daughter. As she enters hospice care, Long has written numerous letters for Riley to open at future milestones. Her husband, Justin, supports her through this difficult time, and the family is fundraising for funeral costs.
Bonnie Ann Tatro, 55, of Worcester, passed away on November 15 after an 8-year battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her sister, nieces, nephews, and was predeceased by her parents and siblings. Bonnie worked at National Grid for 27 years and enjoyed traveling, hot yoga, and visiting casinos. Her family thanks the Rose Monahan Hospice for their care. In lieu of services, donations can be made to the Second Chance Animal Shelter.