Hospice of the Western Reserve Kicks Off 40th Anniversary Year

For 40 years, both paid and volunteer staff members at Hospice of the Western Reserve have walked side by side with the loved ones of more than 100,000 individuals in the final phase of life. As one of the earliest nonprofit pioneers of the hospice movement in the U.S., Hospice of the Western Reserve’s mission has always focused on helping families make the most of the time they have remaining. Care is individualized for each family’s situation and needs, upholding the dignity of each person served. 

The agency’s 2018 Vista Walk and 40th Anniversary Kickoff last week at David Simpson Hospice House served as a joint celebration of life and legacy. Staff gathered with 300 family members from our community to honor the memory of 48 loved ones. Many in attendance dedicated memorial pavers along the lakefront walkway inscribed with their special person's name. Proceeds from these memorial tributes will support programs benefiting future hospice patients and their families.    

Before the Vista Walk tour and program, President and CEO Bill Finn unveiled a new, commemorative 40th anniversary logo, and honored former CEO David S. Simpson, who played an instrumental leadership role in guiding the agency during its formative years. A new portrait of David will be permanently displayed in the hospice house bearing his name.

In their remarks, both men reflected on the hundreds of people committed to the mission that have brought Hospice of the Western Reserve to this point.

“We feel honored to have earned the trust of families in our community for so many years,” Finn said. “This work is truly a passion and a calling for all of us. When someone is diagnosed with a terminal illness, it doesn’t mean their life stops. They still have plenty living to do. In fact, this is the time when all of those things that matter most come into very sharp focus. Our role is to provide comfort and support that will allow each person to have the best quality of life possible. As we head into the next 40 years, we will continue to evolve and look for new ways to innovate and improve end-of-life care in our community.”

Laurie Henrichsen

Public and Media Relations Manager

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Volume 10, Issue 11, Posted 12:06 PM, 11.04.2018