Michelle’s Story – Loving care for families through Hospice
I have always been proud of our Hospice team and the vital service they
provide for our community. In 2019, I gained a new perspective and Tree
of Lights took on a special meaning for my family.
That spring, my Grandma was discharged from the hospital on hospice care. It didn't seem like she was going to die. "We want your Grandma to live," our Hospice care team explained. "We want to support her so that she can participate in her favorite activities and enjoy life." Over the next few months, Grandma went to church, came to the hospital as a volunteer and went on errands. Most importantly, she spent quality time at home with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
As you would expect, she got worse. Hospice was able to provide an immediate response whenever we were worried and they brought in additional resources, including a hospital bed and oxygen, as her condition declined.
One Saturday morning, I was watching over Grandma and she told me, "I think I am going to die today." I called Hospice. Our nurse came right away and made sure I was okay. Then she checked on Grandma. She came out, prayed with me and made sure I had everything I needed.
It was July 2019, and Grandma passed away at the age of 97. We couldn't stop that process from happening, but we could be there to help. I feel blessed to be a Christian, knowing I have the chance to see her again.
I believe that Hospice care is one of the most loving things our organization does for our patients and community. My Grandma died with dignity, at home, surrounded with loving care.
The Hospice Patient Support Fund provides local hospice patients like Michelle’s grandmother with compassionate end-of-life care. It also supports them and their families by helping cover expenses that are not typically covered by insurance, like transportation, in-home care, medications, utilities and more - at a time when they need it most.
Donate by phone: (209) 536-5029
Or checks can be mailed to: