Year End Letter 2010

Dear Friend of Hospice of the Bluegrass,

As we enter this special time of year, I want to thank you for supporting Hospice of the Bluegrass (HOB). It is because of you, donors, volunteers and community supporters, that HOB is able to provide quality end-of-life care to patients, their families and the bereaved. Hospice of the Bluegrass is committed to the dying and I’m asking for your continued support this holiday season; so we can maintain the tradition of meeting the specialized needs of adult and pediatric patients.

As Chairman of the Board, I am honored and inspired by the families I meet who share their hospice experience. Recently, I came across a letter that reminded me of the ways Hospice is living out its mission everyday. Here is an excerpt from the letter:

“Words alone can not describe what a blessing all of you were to my family during the final months of Martha’s illness. We have been married for over fifty years, and she was always in control of the household. When Martha was diagnosed, I did not know how I was going to care for her and then we were referred to you.

Your staff had such a special connection with Martha and our family. I wanted to write a special note to every one of the team members and I don’t want to leave anyone out.

The (home care aide) took such good personal care of Martha. She tended to her bathing and other personal care needs. The nurse was such a calming presence around all of us. She explained in detail the treatment and educated us on how to help Martha.

The (social worker) was constantly by our side through tears and laughter. I am relieved to know the bereavement counselors are there for me and my children.

You all were there when we needed you most. Thank you for your caring efforts.”

As Hospice is blessed by so many letters of appreciation from families across the Bluegrass, this time of year offers us a perfect opportunity to “Thank You” for:

… allowing HOB to provide care to nearly 1100 patients and their families everyday

… supporting grief programs including individual counseling, groups and camps that are available to anyone in the community whether or not their loved one was a hospice patient

… providing funds for the volunteer program which ensures patients receive access to this special member of the hospice team

… contributing to the patient expense fund which helps cover costs for daily living expenses for patients who are experiencing financial crisis

Again, I ask and thank you for taking a moment to include Hospice of the Bluegrass in your holiday giving.
With warmest regards,

Daryl K. Love
Chair, Board of Directors