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.
We all have bucket-list wishes. Sometimes the thing you want to do seems simple, like getting a tattoo, but is really about much more–claiming and honoring someone you love, for instance.
As our Hospice Care Plus home care team worked with and cared for Deloris, it became clear that one of her daughters was on her mind. Deloris had tattoos representing each of her children. But this daughter was adopted later in life, so she wasn’t included in the tattoo. As our care team learned more about her, they could see that this was important and meaningful. They did what they always do – tried to find a way to make it happen.
Chasity Smallwood-Coleman, our director of development, heard about Deloris’s special wish on her day off work. She was familiar with a local tattoo business–Lucky Lady Tattoos in Richmond–and reached out to ask its artist, Will, for help. Will agreed to donate his services.
Then, as we often do, we turned to our heroes at Madison County EMS about safely transporting Deloris to Lucky Lady Tattoos. They also let her be tattooed on the stretcher, which was more comfortable for her.
By the end of the day, Deloris had what she needed: resolution, peace, and a mark that claimed and embraced all of her children.
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:
Grief and Loss During Holidays and Milestones
Compassionate Care Center Updates Completed
News & Events
Shadow Box Workshop July 12
A special workshop to help individuals and families remember and honor a loved one is coming July 12. The Shadow Box Workshop gives participants all the supplies they need—shadow boxes, scrapbook materials, and creative tools—to make their own shadow box or scrapbook page to display at home. There is no fee. All are invited, though…
Success!
By all accounts, the 16th annual Derby Eve Benefit, known this year as Bourbon, Boots & BBQ, was a resounding success. More than 300 guests packed Richardson Hall at the Madison County Fairgrounds to celebrate Kentucky’s Derby traditions, enjoy country music sensation Walker Montgomery, and raise funds for Hospice Care Plus. Fundraising totals will be…
Hospice Hoedown Coming Apr. 12
A hoedown is coming to Mt. Vernon, and it’s for a great cause. The first-ever Hospice Hoedown is Friday, April 12 at 7 p.m. at the Silver Eagle. Touted as old-fashioned fun, organizers say the Hoedown will feature live music by Strait Shot, a homemade BBQ meal, a cake walk, cloggers, dancing, a silent auction,…
Medicare 101 for Family Caregivers
U-Care is hosting Medicare 101 for Family Caregivers on April 12, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Appalachian College Association in Richmond (801 Brighton Ave., Richmond, next to Galaxy Bowling). Registration is required and is free for all family caregivers. The workshop is ideal for those caring for a family member on a part-time or…