- by Waikura, Hei Whakapiki Mauri Whanau Ora Navigator
At the end of November 2016, May had a stroke. A meeting was called in the hospital with a social worker, nurses, doctors and May's whānau. The decision about what was best for May was unfortunately not in the hands of whānau at that hui. It was decided from a medical opinion that May should reside in a rest home for 24-hour care. Her dream was to return to her hometown and reside with her sister.
My role as Navigator became about helping May's whānau and the rest home navigate the residential funding system with success!
I spent time with May and uplifted her in a time of sickness, laughed and shared her wishes. I was soon told May was ill and had news from her GP in respect of her time left before passing.
She had a younger sister who couldn't visit often, but fortunately they were happily re-united before May passed with all her whānau aroha in hospital.
She is survived by her husband, daughters, mokopuna and extended family members.
I empowered May's whānau to arrange their Mum's beautiful tangi and complete May's business. I was able to make a difference in a time of need.
I attended Mays tangi on a crisp early morning down in Rakaia. I farewelled May on behalf of Hei Whakapiki Mauri and her flowers arrived not long after I was there!
I also met May's daughter and supported her to navigate documentation, accountability and process.
May's mission is now near complete with a new mokopuna born and new beginnings for the whānau!
"Mana tangata"
E May, Te wahine rangatira o Te Tai Tokerau,
Moe mai Ki to ake Kainga Tamaki-Makaurau
Arohatinonui.
