When Frank McKinney learned in April last year that Aster Estates was about to open, he knew he found the answer for his friend, Scott Thein.

As a result, Thein was the first resident of Aster Estates, the home-plus residence at 155 NW 10th Ave, just north of the city limits on McKinley.

During most of Thein’s stay, he received palliative care but during the last weeks of his life, he received hospice care. He was 69.

McKinney wanted to share Thein’s story in observance of National Hospice & Palliative Care Month.

Palliative care begins at diagnosis, while hospice begins after treatment has stopped – when it is clear the person won’t survive.

“In addition to rectal and prostate cancer, Scott had an aggressive form of bladder cancer,” said McKinney, lifelong Great Bend resident. “Doctors were amazed he lived 4-and-a-half years with this bladder cancer. Then it went to his brain.”

McKinney and Thein had been friends for about 15 years after meeting in New York, where Thein was living at the time.

“Scott visited Great Bend and liked it here.” McKinney recalled. “I suggested he move here. If he had stayed in New York, I know he would have died a long time ago by himself.”

McKinney acknowledged that his friend “wasn’t sure at first about Aster Estates because Pam Lewis might be too motherly.” Lewis, a registered nurse, owns Aster Estates and lives there.

“Scott felt safe here – emotionally and physically,” McKinney emphasized. “He had a unique childhood but after he had been at Aster Estates for a little while, he said ‘I finally found a home.’”

He had his own chair at the dinner table and enjoyed a birthday cake for the first time, McKinney explained, noting just two ways Aster Estates made him feel at home.

McKinney visited Thein often and took him to some doctors’ appointments. Lewis and her staff also provide transportation.

“Pam has a great staff of certified nurse and medication aides,” McKinney commented. “I always felt welcome when I visited Scott and feel the same way today when I drop in to say ‘hi.’”

Lewis contracts with local hospice agencies that provide registered nurses, nurse and medication aides, medical equipment, social workers and case managers. Chaplains are available for the asking.

“We offer services for someone who needs just a little help with medications and personal care, in addition to palliative and hospice care,” Lewis said. “This continuum of care is so important because our residents can stay here with the people they know and trust.

“We are here for the families too,” she added. “They are going through emotional trauma, wondering what happens next. We can answer those questions. We keep families and doctors informed.”

Lewis also noted that when hospice care is provided away from the person’s private home, “some of the pressure on the family is relieved. They can visit their loved one any time but they also have the respite and support they deserve.”

Aster Estates amenities

Everyone has a private suite, even though some rooms in the 3,600-square-foot residence are large enough for two people.

The state-licensed residence was completely remodeled and most suites have either full- or half-baths. A state-approved fire-alarm system was installed.

Other features include: three home-cooked meals a day and snacks; swimming pool for water aerobics and relaxation with supervision; fishing pond; outdoor pool table and firepit; and large outdoor sitting/activity area.

“All these features combine to allow residents to enjoy both privacy and fellowship at their discretion,” Lewis said. “We understand the emotional upheaval when a move has to be made but we will make them feel at home as much as possible.”