TCH Newsroom
Contact: Rodney Foushee
Public Relations & Marketing Manager
(828) 883-5435
Hospice Tree of Remembrance Campaign Gears Up
BREVARD, N.C., Nov. 13, 2007—There are few things more difficult than experiencing the death of a loved one. But for nearly 200 local families last year, the process was made more comfortable thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers with Transylvania Community Hospital’s Hospice Program.
“During the weeks before Jerry died, he came to view the hospice staff as angels,” said Poo Cabe. The Brevard woman lost her husband of 42 years to cancer in 2006. “We are so appreciative of how much easier they made that time for both of us. The dying process would be much more difficult without the comfort and security given to the family. Hospice is one of Transylvania Community Hospital’s spectacular assets.”
Since 1993, volunteers with the hospital’s hospice program have erected a Tree of Remembrance in Brevard to honor those who have passed away and also raise funds to cover expenses for hospice care for future patients. Hospice care is offered to people in the community who are in their last few months of life due to terminal illnesses, and focuses on helping those who are dying have as much comfort, dignity and quality of life as possible. This year’s Tree of Remembrance will go up Nov. 30 at the Brevard Kmart on Broad Street.
Anyone may purchase a dove with the name of their deceased loved one on it, and display the dove on the Tree of Remembrance throughout the holidays. This tradition has continued to be “hospice volunteer driven” as these dedicated volunteers provide the organization and staffing for the Tree of Remembrance. Last year the Hospice Tree of Remembrance raised $28,000.
“These funds provide for many services for patients whose insurance doesn’t cover the cost of care or who have no insurance at all,” said Liz Cozart, volunteer and bereavement services coordinator for Transylvania Community Hospital Hospice. “Insurance doesn’t always cover the home visits, medicine, medical equipment and bereavement care needed.”
Without the volunteers of the hospice program, much of the important work would go undone. “We rely heavily on our volunteers, and they all do a fantastic job,” Cozart said. “The Hospice Tree itself is so important for the families whose lives have been touched by hospice. I am humbled to be a part of it all.”
For more information on hospice services offered by Transylvania Community Hospital, call 883-5254.
About Transylvania Community Hospital
Transylvania Community Hospital is a nationally ranked 5-Star Hospital and a leading provider of quality healthcare services in Transylvania and surrounding counties. Based in Brevard, N.C., it is a not-for-profit community hospital founded in 1933 and is the largest employer in Transylvania County.