| November 06, 2007 |
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In a proclamation issued from the White House, President Bush declared November 2007 as National Hospice Month. This is the 29th consecutive year November has been designated as a national month in honor of hospice. The proclamation states: "Our Nation is committed to helping ensure that citizens with terminal illness and their families receive the assistance they need. We believe in the dignity and worth of every person at every stage of life, and hospice care brings support and comfort to those in need." (Read the President's proclamation online www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/10/20071031.html.) Throughout the month of November, PRN Home Health & Hospice, Inc. will host activities to educate the public and other healthcare professionals about the benefits of hospice as reports show continued need. According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, 1.3 million people with life-limiting illness received care from the nation's 4,500 hospice providers last year. This represents continued growth in both patients served and number of providers. Approximately 35 percent of all deaths in the US were under the care of a hospice program. To recognize the growing need for Hospice services and provide local resources, PRN invites the community to a Candlelight Memorial Service and Hospice Open House. • Candlelight Memorial Service: To honor the spiritual aspect of Hospice and provide an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. o Tuesday, November 20 (7 p.m.) – Wamego City Park (Shiloh Community Church in case of inclement weather) • Hospice Open House: Meet the Hospice staff and caregivers that have experienced the benefit of Hospice programs and find out about local programs and services. o Monday, November 26 (5-7 p.m.) –1010 Lincoln St. Wamego, KS (PRN Home Office) • Caregivers Support Group: Gather to grieve, garner support, find local resources, and plan for the future. o Ongoing group meeting 3rd Tuesday of month (6-8 p.m.) – 1010 Lincoln St. Wamego, KS (PRN Home Office) "The philosophy at the heart of hospice and palliative care is about so much more than what's commonly seen in conventional medical care. It's about providing solutions for difficult times when hope is in question, it's being close in a time of fear, it's about dignity, humanity, and hope," said J. Donald Schumacher, NHPCO president and CEO. "When you look at all that makes up hospice and palliative care, and the difference that care makes in the lives of more and more Americans, you begin to understand its contribution in the healthcare continuum." Hospice is not a place but a philosophy of care created to help people live with dignity, comfort, and compassion at the end of life. PRN’s Hospice program provides in home care to help people at the end of life stage, live with dignity, comfort and compassion. Specific services include pain management, symptom control, psychosocial support, and spiritual care to patients and their families throughout Geary, Osage, Pottawatomie, Riley, and Wabaunsee counties. |
