By Michael S. McHale, President and CEO                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Hospice of the Chesapeake

Nov. 29 -- Every November, Hospice of the Chesapeake reaches out to our community to raise awareness about the compassionate care that the hospice team provides patients and families coping with advanced illness. This month of awareness provides an opportunity for us to remind people that hospice care allows patients and families to focus on living.

This surprises some people.

Those of us who have worked in the field have seen firsthand how hospice can improve the quality of life. And, research shows that families report a better quality of life under hospice care. To further the surprise, there’s a growing body of research that shows that hospice may prolong the lives of some people who receive our care.

The hospice team provides expert medical care to keep patients comfortable and able to enjoy time with loved ones.  The hospice team answers questions, offers advice on what to expect, and provides families emotional and spiritual support.  With the help of hospice, patients and familiescan focus on what’s most important — enjoying life together and living as fully as possible.  If you or a loved one is facing serious or life-limiting illness the time to act is now.   

Hospice of the Chesapeake is very fortunate to have the support of the communities we serve. We count our blessing every day to have a compassionate and talented team of professionals and volunteers who give families the opportunity to celebrate what is most important in life.

Please join me in thanking the staff and volunteers of Hospice of the Chesapeake during National Hospice Month.