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All posts tagged with “Clinical News | We Honor Veterans and Veterans Program News.”
Community Hospice & Palliative Care launches “Mail Call” program to honor veteran patients
07/03/25 at 03:00 AMCommunity Hospice & Palliative Care launches “Mail Call” program to honor veteran patients ehospice - USA edition, Jacksonville, FL; 6/24/25 Community Hospice & Palliative Care® is proud to announce the launch of its new “Mail Call” program, designed to honor and appreciate our veteran patients in a deeply personal way. This initiative expands upon our existing veteran recognition ceremonies, enriching the end-of-life care experience for those who have served our country. The “Mail Call” program invites volunteers, students, and community members to write heartfelt letters to our veteran patients. These letters, reminiscent of the cherished mail from home during their service years, offer messages of gratitude, encouragement, and personal reflections. Participants can choose to include their name or school, allowing students to share their appreciation directly with our veterans.
Hospice of Redmond to host special presentation by Project Recover: Bringing missing military home
07/03/25 at 03:00 AMHospice of Redmond to host special presentation by Project Recover: Bringing missing military home The Source, Redmond, OR; 7/1/25 Hospice of Redmond is honored to announce a special presentation featuring Project Recover, an organization dedicated to finding and bringing home military personnel missing in action (MIA). The event will take place on Thursday, July 9, 2025, from 1:30-3:00 PM ... The presentation will feature Adrian De La Rosa, Chief Operating Officer of Project Recover, who will share insights into the organization's critical work. ... "At Hospice of Redmond, Veterans are near and dear to our hearts," said Jody Logsdon, Volunteer Coordinator at Hospice of Redmond. "We believe every veteran deserves to be honored, thanked for their sacrifice, and returned home with the dignity they’ve earned. ..."
Celebrating our veterans this Independence Day
07/03/25 at 03:00 AMCelebrating our veterans this Independence DayCity SunTimes, Phoenix, AZ; by Lin Sue Flood; 7/2/25 Apple pie and hot dogs often take center stage on the Fourth of July, but the real stars are the men and women who served and sacrificed for our country. That’s why Hospice of the Valley care teams are delighted to honor veteran patients in meaningful ways — whether that is a tribute visit by another veteran, a birthday party or even sharing a unique recognition for their years of service. That recognition came in the form of an emotional reception and book signing for Korean War veteran Bob Withers. He was excited to share his story with Imprints of Honor for the Library of Congress’ Veteran History Project. The proud 96-year-old Marine asked his Hospice of the Valley chaplain, Kody Kness, and daughter, Lauren, to attend the recent event with him at Scottsdale Stadium to commemorate the 3,000th veteran interview for this national endeavor. “It was a great opportunity to honor so many veterans,” Bob shared. “I won’t ever forget this wonderful day.”
Temporal trends in opioid-related care and pain among Veterans at the end of life
06/28/25 at 03:25 AMTemporal trends in opioid-related care and pain among Veterans at the end of lifeJournal of Pain and Symptom Management; by Melissa W. Wachterman, Stuart R. Lipsitz, Erin Beilstein-Wedel, Walid F. Gellad, Karl A. Lorenz, Nancy L. Keating; 7/25In response to the opioid crisis, federal guidelines were implemented, including the Veterans Health Administration's (VA) Opioid Safety Initiative in 2013. The impact of policies on patients near the end of life is unknown. Over a time period during which opioid safety initiatives were implemented, opioid prescribing near the end of life decreased, accompanied by decreases in opioid-related hospitalizations but increases in pain. These findings suggest that important tradeoffs may exist between reducing opioid-related serious adverse events and undertreating patient pain in the last month of life. Opioid prescribing guidelines could consider incorporating prognosis into recommendations.
Community Hospice & Palliative Care launches "Mail Call" program to honor Veteran patients
06/27/25 at 03:10 AMCommunity Hospice & Palliative Care launches "Mail Call" program to honor Veteran patientsJaxChamber; 6/24/25Community Hospice & Palliative Care (Jacksonville, FL) is proud to announce the launch of its new "Mail Call" program, designed to honor and appreciate our veteran patients in a deeply personal way. This initiative expands upon our existing veteran recognition ceremonies, enriching the end-of-life care experience for those who have served our country. The "Mail Call" program invites volunteers, students, and community members to write heartfelt letters to our veteran patients. These letters, reminiscent of the cherished mail from home during their service years, offer messages of gratitude, encouragement, and personal reflections. Participants can choose to include their name or school, allowing students to share their appreciation directly with our veterans.
Mālama Ola earns top national honor for veteran hospice care
06/25/25 at 03:00 AMMālama Ola earns top national honor for veteran hospice careMaui News; 6/18/25Mālama Ola Health Services, based on Oʻahu, has become the first hospice and palliative care organization in the state of Hawai‘i to earn Level 5 status from We Honor Veterans, the highest recognition awarded by the national program for veteran-centered end-of-life care. The designation places Mālama Ola among just 233 organizations—about 7% of over 3,300 participating nationwide—that have achieved Level 5. Only 41 of those also provide both hospice and palliative care services.
Landmark 20-year study reshapes understanding of PTSD
06/25/25 at 03:00 AMLandmark 20-year study reshapes understanding of PTSDMedscape; by Alicia Ault; 6/12/25A large 20-year study — the longest and most detailed of its kind — shows that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms can endure for decades, challenging conventional timelines for recovery and offering new insights to guide future treatment.
Advancing Symptom Alleviation with Palliative Treatment (ADAPT): A qualitative study to understand how a nurse and social worker palliative telecare team improved quality of life in chronic illness
06/14/25 at 03:10 AMAdvancing Symptom Alleviation with Palliative Treatment (ADAPT): A qualitative study to understand how a nurse and social worker palliative telecare team improved quality of life in chronic illnessJournal of Applied Gerontology; Amy Ladebue, Juliana G. Barnard, Leah M. Haverhals, Brianne Morgan, Kelly Blanchard, Marilyn Sloan, David B. Bekelman; 5/25 The Advancing Symptom Alleviation with Palliative Treatment (ADAPT) trial found that a nurse and social worker palliative telecare team (providing care via phone) improved quality of life in older Veteran patients with chronic illness. Our objective was to describe clinician and patient experiences of ADAPT and how ADAPT influenced Veterans’ quality of life. We used thematic analysis on structured interviews with 36 randomly selected patients, semi-structured focus groups with nine palliative care intervention team clinicians, and clinical intervention summaries of 147 patients. ADAPT proved to be an effective model for most Veterans by improving Veterans’ health care delivery and navigation and promoting timely and holistic health care and teaching skills that improved wellbeing. ADAPT also helped to improve patient engagement and sense of agency.
92-year-old veteran takes to the skies on flight down memory lane
06/10/25 at 03:00 AM92-year-old veteran takes to the skies on flight down memory lane TCPalm, part of the USA TODAY Network; by Mary Ann Ketcham, Treasure Coast Hospice; 6/8/25 At 92 years old, Korean War Air Force veteran and Treasure Coast Hospice patient Joseph Vespo recently took to the skies in a Cessna 172 airplane for a flight down memory lane. An ear-to-ear smile lit up his face as the aircraft taxied down the runway and took off from the Treasure Coast International Airport in Fort Pierce. During his time in the Air Force, Vespo monitored aircraft systems from the cockpit. ... For 40 years, he owned and flew Bonanza planes but had been unable to fly in recent years. ... "This fantastic opportunity to fly again came about because we get to know our patients and their families," said Treasure Coast Hospice Community Outreach Representative Jenny Fee. ... The Treasure Coast Hospice Veteran Care Fund and local pilot Jim Howard of Clearflight Aviation helped make his dream a reality.
A World War II hero is facing his final battle - with Medicare | PennLive letters
06/09/25 at 02:00 AMA World War II hero is facing his final battle - with Medicare | PennLive letters PennLive Patriot News; by PenLive Letters to the Editor; 6/5/25 “Is this how one treats a 100-year-old World War II Army veteran?” I am such, having defended my country in the Philippines and then as one of the first GIs to step on Japan’s shores when it surrendered. Today, I am a widower, living alone under hospice care in the same small, comfortable home my wife and I cherished for so many years. My health condition has deteriorated dramatically, due to the ravages of ESRD, bladder cancer, anemia, high blood pressure, depression, and loss of balance. I am mostly bedridden, waiting for the inevitable. And yet, just now, I have received a Notice of Discharge from hospice because of an “extended prognosis,” literally meaning in lay terms that, “I’m living too long for hospice and Medicare purposes.” They argue that I’m now able enough medically to make it on my own without hospice care! ... I know I have only weeks, perhaps a month to live, but their rejoinder is simply, “Thank you for your service, but get out of our sight.”Editor's note: Click here for a similar related article and my editor's note, Dementia patient discharged from hospice over Medicare requirement. Here’s why it happened. (One of our "most read" Sunday posts.) These cases are too common. Basic communication, information, and coordinated care planning can mitigate much of the distress and pain. How does this dynamic play out with the patients and families you serve?
Sioux Falls VA Healthcare System opens hospice cottage
06/03/25 at 03:00 AMSioux Falls VA Healthcare System opens hospice cottage Dakota News Now, Sioux Falls, SD; by Dakota News Now staff; 5/30/25 The Sioux Falls VA Healthcare System has cut the ribbon and opened the newest facility on its campus, a hospice cottage. The 10,000-foot facility with 10 beds is meant to give veterans and their families a high level of care and a peaceful environment that allows them to spend time together. The VA says the cottage is the perfect setting for end-of-life care for veterans, treating them with dignity. ... "We are here for the veterans, and we complete that circle. The time they gave, and now we’re giving back to them at the end of their life,” said Sioux Falls VA Hospice Nurse Manager Cami VanWyhe.
Veteran’s Last Patrol joins NVBDC’s MVO Task Force to support veterans in hospice care
05/28/25 at 03:00 AMVeteran’s Last Patrol joins NVBDC’s MVO Task Force to support veterans in hospice care Eurozone.Newswire, Detroit, MI; by EIN Presswire.com; 5/27/25 The National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) proudly welcomes Veterans Last Patrol as the newest member of its Military and Veteran Organization (MVO) Task Force. This collaboration expands the Task Force’s ability to reach and support Veterans during one of the most critical moments in their lives—end-of-life care. Founded by retired military officer Claude Schmid, Veterans’ Last Patrol is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing companionship and support to Veterans in hospice care. With a mission to “befriend, honor, and support,” the organization works to ensure that no Veteran faces the end of life alone, offering meaningful connection and comfort during their final days, or their “Last Patrol.”
I work with dying Veterans. Here's why I don't automatically thank them for their service.
05/28/25 at 03:00 AMI work with dying Veterans. Here's why I don't automatically thank them for their service.HuffPost Personal; by Scott Janssen; 5/26/25“'What’s it like having people thanking you for your service everywhere you go, James?' I asked. 'You might think this is an exaggeration but you asked,' he said. 'It’s an act of violence.'” ... “When you’re looking back on a life that includes the cataclysmic violence and horrific loss and grief of war, this life review process can be psychologically and spiritually complex ― even painful.”Publisher's note: An interesting reminder that care is individualized.
Veterans honored ahead of Memorial Day with picnic hosted by Hospice of Texarkana
05/26/25 at 03:00 AMVeterans honored ahead of Memorial Day with picnic hosted by Hospice of Texarkana KSLA-TV 12, Shreveport, LA; by Fred Gamble; 5/17/25 Hospice of Texarkana held its third annual Veterans Appreciation Picnic Friday (May 16) honoring the service and sacrifice of area military veterans and their families. Organizers said with Memorial Day just around the corner, the event gave attendees a time to relax and connect with each other.
Memorial Day Remembrance event
05/26/25 at 03:00 AMMemorial Day Remembrance event Sand Mountain Reporter, Albertville, AL; by Mary Bailey; 5/23/25 The skies parted just enough to give Shepherd's Cove Hospice in Albertville perfect weather for their annual Memorial Day Remembrance event held on the front grounds. This yearly event is a time of solemn reflection and gratitude as they honor the lives of the veterans they had the privilege to serve over the pastt year. Stacy Johnson, Bereavement Director with Shepherd's Cove Hospice welcomed those in attendance to the event. ... The free event honored 73 veterans who were served in Hospice care at the facility. Along with the roll call of veterans, there was also a presentation of colors. Across the front lawn is also 73 white crosses bearing the names of each veteran.
"Taps" Bugle Call: USMC Drum & Bugle Corps [YouTube]
05/26/25 at 03:00 AM"Taps" Bugle Call: USMC Drum & Bugle Corps [YouTube]YouTube, filmed at the National Mall, Washington DC, retrieved from the internet 5/22/25Editor's note: We invite you to start this Memorial Day with this reflective playing of "Taps," with backdrops of the Washington Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and more. Ongoing, we share with you these resources below for the veterans and their families whom you serve.
Memorial Day: 3:00 pm National Moment of Remembrance
05/26/25 at 03:00 AMMemorial Day: 3:00 pm National Moment of RemembranceUSMilitary.com - A non-government, privately sponsored website; retrieved from the internet 5/22/25The day is not just about looking back but also about engaging with the present and future. It provides an opportunity for communities and individuals across the nation to come together in a shared spirit of remembrance. ... This year, as we commemorate Memorial Day, we invite you to join us in honoring the legacy of our heroes through active participation and thoughtful reflection. ... At 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to pause for a moment of silence to remember and honor the fallen. The National Moment of Remembrance is a collective act of unity, acknowledging the sacrifices made for our country. Whether you are at home, at a parade, or spending time with family, take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the day. This simple yet profound gesture serves as a nationwide expression of gratitude and respect.
Memorial Day 2025: Resources, events, and ways to honor our fallen heroes
05/23/25 at 03:00 AMMemorial Day 2025: Resources, events, and ways to honor our fallen heroes Hope for the Warriors; retrieved from the internet 5/22/25 Each year, as the last Monday of May approaches, we are reminded that Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer. It is a sacred time to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Ways to Honor and Remember:
NorthStar Care Community launches 'Life's Big Moments' campaign to initiate nationwide conversation about end-of-life hospice care
05/20/25 at 03:00 AMNorthStar Care Community launches 'Life's Big Moments' campaign to initiate nationwide conversation about end-of-life hospice care PR Newswire, Ann Arbor, MI; by NorthStar Care Community; 5/19/25 NorthStar Care Community has launched Life's Big Moments, a campaign that celebrates the beauty of life's journey from the big milestones to the small, everyday moments that leave the deepest impact on our well-being and purpose. The campaign aims to initiate conversation and awareness around end-of-life care while also raising money to benefit the members of NorthStar Care Community. Companies, organizations, and individuals are invited to support these efforts throughout the campaign, focusing on recognizing the needs of our Veterans.
Family Hospice opens Dublin office to serve veterans and families in need of end-of-life care
05/15/25 at 03:00 AMFamily Hospice opens Dublin office to serve veterans and families in need of end-of-life care }NBC WMGT-41, Dublin, GA; by Bre'Anna Sheffield 5/13/25 Family Hospice expands to Dublin to serve the area's large veteran population and provide compassionate care for patients and families navigating end-of-life decisions. Many families face difficult decisions when it comes to hospice care. To help meet that need, Family Hospice is opening a new office in the Dublin area. The newly appointed CEO, Charles Hall, says the large veteran population in Dublin made it the right place to expand their services.
[Pre-Memorial Day Outreach] Hospice of Texarkana to host Veterans Appreciation Picnic on Friday
05/15/25 at 03:00 AM[Pre-Memorial Day Outreach] Hospice of Texarkana to host Veterans Appreciation Picnic on Friday Texarkana Gazette, Texarkana, TX; by Gazette Staff; 5/14/25 Hospice of Texarkana will have its third annual Veterans Appreciation Picnic from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday at the Hospice of Texarkana Care Center grounds, ... The picnic is open to all current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces ... The picnic not only celebrates veterans but also fosters community, allowing attendees to connect, share stories, and relax in a supportive and respectful environment, according to a news release. Guests will enjoy complimentary lunch and beverages and are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for outdoor seating. "As part of our 'We Honor Veterans' program, this event reflects our deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by our nation's heroes," said Cynthia Marsh, executive director of Hospice of Texarkana. "With Memorial Day around the corner, it's a meaningful time to come together in honor and reflection."Editor's note: What great community outreach!
Team work makes the dream work for hospice veteran
05/14/25 at 03:00 AMTeam work makes the dream work for hospice veteran Veterans Administration, VA.gov; by Douglas A. Etter; 5/12/25 When Marine Corps Veteran Ivson Shelley came to the Lebanon VA Medical Center for a follow-up visit with his oncologist, Suhail Ali, MD, the staff was concerned about how much the former New York resident had declined since his last appointment. They didn’t think he could be cared for at home any longer, so a decision was made with the family to admit him to the medical center’s hospice unit Thursday afternoon. Once there, the Marine shared a heartfelt wish with the staff – he wanted to marry his lifelong love, Wanda Rivera. The couple had dated more than 50 years ago and rekindled their relationship 10 years ago. Upon hearing the Vietnam Veteran’s wish, the VA team, lead by Hospice Nurse Manager Jessica Himes, RN and Hospice Social Worker, Erin Miller, MSW, LCSW quickly came together to make it happen. Palliative care nurse Melissa Buchinski, RN began to research what the requirements were to secure a marriage license for the couple. ... [Continue reading this inspirational story.]
VNA Hospice NWI celebrates some of its most dedicated volunteers at Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast
04/11/25 at 03:00 AMVNA Hospice NWI celebrates some of its most dedicated volunteers at Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast NWI.LIFE, Valparaiso, IN; by Philip Bolton; 4/7/25 On the morning of Saturday, April 5, VNA Hospice of Northwest Indiana hosted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso. Volunteers who assist with VNA’s many services, including hospice and palliative care, the Medical Guardian help button program, the We Honor Veterans program, the Phoenix Center for Grief, and VNA Meals on Wheels of Porter County, were recognized. ... Matthew Naillieux, a VNA Hospice NWI volunteer, has proudly worked with the organization for 20 years. “Everything VNA Hospice NWI does is good for the community,” Naillieux said. ... "Usually, we’re volunteering at different locations at different times, and we aren’t able to get together like this very often." ... During the award presentation segment of the event, volunteers were recognized for milestone achievements. These included awards for achievements like 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service ... [Continue reading ...]Editor's note: Reminder that April is National Volunteer Month; April 20-26, 2025 is National Volunteer Week.
Long-overdue recognition: Vietnam veterans welcomed home at emotional ceremony
03/31/25 at 03:00 AMLong-overdue recognition: Vietnam veterans welcomed home at emotional ceremony Grice Connect; by DeWayne Grice; 3/29/25 A poignant and heartfelt welcome home ceremony was held at Ogeechee Area Hospice, honoring Vietnam veterans from the surrounding communities. The event, filled with emotional tributes and personal stories, aimed to provide long-overdue recognition for the sacrifices made by these veterans. The ceremony, organized by Ogeechee Hospice, the American Legion Post 90, and Georgia Department of Veteran Affairs, brought together veterans, their families, and community members. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and respect, as attendees acknowledged the often-overlooked service of those who served during a tumultuous period in American history.Editor's note: We add this to previous posts,
Today is the National Vietnam War Veterans Day, honoring 50 years since the war's end
03/29/25 at 03:00 AMToday is the National Vietnam War Veterans Day, honoring 50 years since the war's end U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration Join us on 29 March, National Vietnam War Veterans Day, as Americans unite to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. ... The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration honors all veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, and their families. Editor's note: Several hospice "We Honor Veterans" programs have been using this commemoration to thank their community's Vietnam veterans, especially in light of differences between their returns home from those of WWII veterans. Within your networks of colleagues, friends and families, whom can you informally honor, today?