Buena Vista Regional Medical Center is now offering hospice care bags thanks to the Auxiliary and some compassionate care givers. Hospice is a term for specialized care for those patients facing a life-limiting illness. Those caring for hospice patients address physical and emotional needs.
Diane Dick, a nurse in the Medical-Surgical Department, has a special place for hospice patients and their families. She comes from a background of working in hospice and homecare.
“Hospitals can have a sterile feel and we wanted to add a personal touch,” explains Diane.
With the help of her supervisor Deb Colshan and fellow nurse Kim Hanson, they came up with an idea of a hospice care bag that includes a wickless candle that gives a soft glow, lip balm, lotion, fleece blanket and a book that provides insight into the dying process to alieve anxiety.
The idea was presented to the Auxiliary, a group made of community volunteers that fundraise to financially support projects for the hospital. They immediately agreed to financially support the project and to seek volunteers to sew the fleece blankets.
“The hospice bags are exactly the kind of project the BVRMC Auxiliary loves to support,” explains Volunteer Services Coordinator Mary Drey. “Anything we can do to add an extra amount of comfort during difficult times are exactly what we want to do.”
“Patients and families have been appreciative that we would do something extra like this for them,” says Diane.
“I helped put the finishing touches on this project, but it really was the brainchild of several people who helped put it all together. It truly shows how BVRMC staff and volunteers can work together to make our hospital the best place for care,” says Diane.