To Make a Meaningful Mark

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.

Leave a Comment





Our Mission:

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:

New Volunteer Training Saturday May 17

Hospice Care Plus is hosting an in-person training for new volunteers on Saturday, May 17, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM,...

Rockin’ Derby Eve Benefit Friday May 2

Reservations are now open for the Derby Eve Benefit Party: Rockin' Derby Eve! This adult only event is the longest...

Gift A Day Of Care in 2025

Every Day Is a Gift at Hospice Care Plus. We have spent 43 years fulfilling our mission of providing compassionate...

Journaling Through Grief Series Hosted in Irvine

Hospice Care Plus is offering a new grief support series called Journaling Through Grief, starting Aug. 7 and ending Oct....

News & Events

387179005_914080276758489_7845721179632476550_n

BID2GIVE Charity Auction is LIVE

The 2023 BID2GIVE Online Charity Auction benefiting Hospice Care Plus is now live.  This year’s auction features more than 140 items, including UK and EKU sports packages, cabin and pontoon rentals, fall décor, antiques, and much more. Visit the auction site to see items, read descriptions, and place your bids. You will need a Ford…

Robert Kilbourn is inducted into the Kentucky Guild of Artist and Craftsmen

A Life’s Passion Shared

Through his long and dedicated career as a surgical technician, Robert has come to know countless people in his community. However, many had no idea that he had another great passion.  

a photo of Dr. Rondal Goble standing outdoors at Hospice Care Plus

Dr. Goble is New Chief MD

Rondal Goble, MD, is the new chief medical director for Hospice Care Plus. Dr. Goble replaces Hanan Budeiri, MD, who retired in August after 23 years with the organization. “Dr. Goble’s effortless ease of communication is instantly comforting; he is compassionate and has a delightful personality,” says Dr. Budeiri. “Above all, he is a sincere…

Mr. And Mrs. Poynter celebrate Mr. Poynter's birthday at home with home hospice care.

A Special Birthday

When Mr. George Poynter entered home hospice care six months ago, he and his family did not expect to see his 86th birthday. But, as is often the case, his condition improved after coming home, where he felt most comfortable, and receiving expert care from an interdisciplinary team.