“To cure sometimes, to help often and to comfort always” was how a 16th century physician summarised the purposes of medicine. But somehow, in the scientific pursuit of cures, the second two were neglected well into the last century. Without science there would be no development; but could science ever be applied to such nebulous concepts? The answer, we now know, is a resounding Yes. Palliative care today resembles other successful medical disciplines in being founded on a strong knowledge base; but it differs from most in approaching every person anew, as a unique emotional, social and spiritual whole. This coupling makes a special kind of science. Palliative care focuses on people whose disease no longer responds to curative treatment – how to make their remaining lives as good as possible, how to support the family. To help and to comfort always. There is much to be taught and even more to be learned

http://www.cicelysaundersfoundation.org/index.php/palliative?PHPSESSID=dbe95c3214df4c613297527b232a4f3f