Finding Meaning in the Final Chapter: A Conversation With Dr. Julie Napolskikh
Published: April 13, 2026
Dr. Julie Napolskikh’s journey to palliative care began early in her training—but it was her experience at Dorothy Ley Hospice that truly defined her path.
“What stood out to me right away was the compassion,” she says. “There was time to listen, to connect—it felt very human.”
After exploring several areas of medicine, Julie returned to palliative care during her residency and completed a rotation at Dorothy Ley Hospice. That experience confirmed her direction.
“In hospital, patients often ask, ‘When can I go home?’ At the hospice or in people’s homes, there’s a sense of calm and control. Patients are more comfortable, and care is centred around what matters most to them.”
Today, Dr. Napolskikh is part of Dorothy Ley Hospice’s Community Physicians Team and serves as co-lead, supporting patients both at home and in hospice. Her work reflects the Hospice’s commitment to compassionate, personalized care—focused not just on managing symptoms, but on supporting the whole person and their family.
Palliative care, she explains, is often misunderstood.
“People expect it to be sad, but it’s incredibly meaningful. We build relationships, we prepare families, and we reduce fear.”
Each day is different—ranging from managing pain and symptoms to guiding families through difficult moments. Communication and trust are central to every visit.
“If illness is like a storm, palliative care is the umbrella,” she says. “We can’t stop the storm, but we can make people more comfortable through it.”
At Dorothy Ley Hospice, that care also begins earlier. Through programs like the Community Palliative Care Clinic, patients and families can access support sooner—building relationships and confidence before needs become urgent.
“When people meet us earlier, their experience is better. They know who we are, and they don’t feel alone.”
While the work can be emotionally challenging, the impact is immediate and meaningful.
“The wins look different,” she reflects. “It might be easing someone’s pain, or helping a family feel less overwhelmed. You can see the difference right away.”
For Dr. Napolskikh, and for the team at Dorothy Ley Hospice, the goal is simple:
To help people live well for as long as possible—surrounded by care, comfort, and dignity.