Veteran Hospice Program Receives 4 Stars

Last June, Quad County Hospice kicked off a new program called “No Veteran Dies Alone”.  The purpose of the program is to link veteran volunteers with vets living out their final stanza in Quad County Hospice care.  It provides a reassuring presence to a dying veteran with ongoing visits from volunteer veterans. 

The program is not unique to Quad County.  It is a national organization and was established by We Honor Veterans.  Quad County and its’ veteran volunteers have worked very hard to receive the 4 star rating, in fact only 4 hospice programs in the Illinois/Indiana region have achieved this honor!  Some of the many items that were accomplished to receive 4 stars include:
*establishing contact with the local VA hospital and help vets in getting
information processed quickly in order to receive hospice benefits
*providing in-services and presentations to VA organizations in the area
*providing a bereavement program for veteran families
*have monthly meetings
*successfully market the program through newspaper, radio, magazines, etc.

A highlight of the program has been the pinning ceremony. Quad County Hospice currently has conducted 14 pinning ceremonies in our service area which includes Shelby, Christian, Fayette, and Montgomery counties.  The pinning ceremony is a special program which honors Veteran hospice patients with an American flag Veteran pin, certificate of appreciation for their service to our country, handmade blanket and pillow made by volunteers featuring the branch of service the patient served in, and refreshments. 

Quad County currently has 13 veterans who serve as volunteers.  These volunteers have worked hard to achieve the four star ranking and provide honor and dignity to veterans in our area in their final stage of life.  If you want to be a volunteer /volunteer veteran or learn more about the “No Veteran Dies Alone” program, please call Rachael Springate, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Quad County Hospice, 8 Huber St Pana  217-562-6380.

Photo Caption:  Pictured are some of the Quad County Hospice veteran volunteers. (L to R-seated): Glenn Caulk –Army, Illinois National Guard; Earl Baker – son of American legion; Joe Marley – Army; Ron Morell – Army (standing):  Carol Chandler - Director of Quad County; Roger Baldock – Navy; Roger Swim – Army; Bill Wright – Army and Navy; Mickey Clemons – Army; Jack Moss – Navy; Tom Culberson - Quad County Director of Nursing; and Rachael Springate - Hospice Volunteer Coordinator.  Not present Mark Denton – Army; Richard Simms – Marine;  Dave Strowmatt- Marine; Dan Eck – Army.