Our stories about meaningful experiences are written as they unfold. Therefore, most stories are in the present tense. Some of the patients in these stories are no longer with us. They, and their families, gave us permission to share their experience with you. For those who have since passed, we share these in their memories with deep appreciation for what they have taught us about life and living.
Honoring those who have served our country is one of our greatest joys. Not everyone understands how important it can be for a veteran to be formally recognized for their service, especially as the end of life nears. For some, these bedside ceremonies are the first time they’ve experienced that kind of recognition. For Jack, a Korean War veteran, being honored for his service meant more than we could have imagined.
Jack’s family shared with us that the Korean War was often referred to as “The Forgotten War,” and veterans who served in this war sometimes feel overlooked. Jack’s hospice team got to work on planning a recognition for his service. They reached out to Honor Flight Bluegrass, out of Louisville, and plans were underway to get Jack on the next flight to Washington, D.C. Although Jack appreciated the offer, he ultimately decided that a ceremony at home would be best, so we brought the honor flight to him.
On a chilly October evening, members from the local American Legion, along with a representative from Honor Flight Bluegrass, helped us recognize Jack for his dedicated service as a Korean War veteran. There were a few tears, but mostly big smiles and a lot of stories from Jack’s days in the Korean War. His sister said he’d long been waiting for this day – a day to be formally thanked.
How can you honor life during National Hospice & Palliative Care Month? Visit the #WeHonorLife campaign page to learn about all the ways you can help, from volunteering and shopping to helping us increase access to specialized care for the seriously ill and their families. Questions? Contact us at hospice@hospicecp.org or 859-986-1500 or visit our website.
Hospice Care Plus empowers those we serve to enjoy the highest quality of life, respecting their values, beliefs, needs, and goals through specialized care, education, resources, and grief support.
Our Service Area:
Our Home Hospice and Home Palliative Care programs serve you, wherever you call home, in the Kentucky counties of Estill, Jackson, Lee, Madison, Owsley, and Rockcastle.
Our inpatient care facility, the Compassionate Care Center, and administrative offices are located in Richmond, Kentucky.
Recent News:
News & Events
Give a Heart for Hospice in Feb.
During the month of February, the community is invited to give a heart for Hospice. All month long, this fundraiser gives you the opportunity to show your support by donating for a heart for Hospice online or at participating banks. It takes a lot of heart to provide care for all, regardless of insurance status…
Volunteer Training March 2
In-Person Volunteer Training March 2 Hospice Care Plus is hosting an in-person training for new volunteers on Saturday, March 2, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, at the Madison County Public Library in Richmond. Register today to secure your spot! Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Mariah Smith, volunteer coordinator, says the in-person, group training has a…
Grief During the Holiday Season
The holiday season can be a uniquely difficult time for those grieving the loss of a loved one. A 2021 survey of 2,000* U.S. adults indicated that 36 percent of respondents didn’t want to celebrate the holidays because of feelings of grief or loss. The reasons vary widely from person to person and among age groups. The…
Remembrance Tree Ceremony 2023
QUICK FACTS: When: Sunday, December 3, 2 PM Where: EKU Perkins Building, 4436 Kit Carson Drive, Richmond, KY 40475 Why: Whether your loss was recent or not, the holidays are a time when those we’ve lost are especially missed. Who: All are welcome to participate, regardless of whether we cared for your loved one. What does…