By arhospice on October 6th, 2023

John Wilfong knew something was wrong when he started experiencing pain in his right leg.

“I got down where I couldn’t walk and was numb from here down,” he said, motioning from his chest downward.

After learning that he had prostate and bone cancer, Mr. Wilfong was told that the only treatment option was to stay home and take it easy. But for Mr. Wilfong, that was not an option. While he knew his cancer was serious, he had a conviction that something was being overlooked.

When an Arkansas Hospice board member heard about Mr. Wilfong’s condition, she encouraged the family to call Arkansas Hospice, explaining that their continuum of care has expanded to include palliative care, which helps patients facing serious illness navigate the complicated healthcare system.

After receiving a call from Mr. Wilfong, The Arkansas Hospice Family of Care clinicians reviewed his records and were suspicious that something was being overlooked – and it was. In 2021, he underwent emergency surgery. Since then, the Arkansas Palliative Care team has been by his side, coordinating care with multiple providers through his successful recovery.

Now, thanks to his care, Mr. Wilfong is back to living his life and building dune buggies for his sons and grandchildren – and encouraging others to see if Arkansas Hospice’s Family of Care can help them.

“It’d be wrong if you didn’t call,” he said.

If you or someone you know is dealing with a life-limiting illness, our “Family of Care” is here to evaluate where you are and help with the right path of comfort care to improve your quality of life. CLICK HERE or call 501-748-3333 and get help now.