Time to remember hospice volunteers

Dear editor,

When we think of health care breakthroughs, we usually think of new surgical procedures or miracle drugs, not hospice care. Hospice’s story, however, is unique and remarkable.
In just over three decades, hospice has quietly revolutionized the way people die in America, by honoring wishes and bringing peace, dignity and comfort to millions of patients and families.
November is National Hospice Month, a time when we at Emerald Coast Hospice honor our patients and families, and recognize the contributions of professionals and volunteers who provide hospice care.
Emerald Coast Hospice is a not-for-profit that provides direct care, support and education to the residents in our community to ensure comfort, dignity and choice during life-threatening illness or the transition of dying. It serves patients in Jackson, Calhoun, Holmes and Washington counties.
When patients and families choose hospice, they receive care unlike any other. The hospice team treats pain and symptoms with aggressive medical care, and eases the emotional and spiritual suffering of patients, families and loved ones.
This November, as you prepare for Thanksgiving and recall what you have to be grateful for, please remember the hospice professionals and volunteers who are making a difference every day in the lives of our community’s terminally ill and their families.
They truly are the heart and soul of hospice.

Ronni Bowen RN, AE
Emerald Coast Hospice