Coming of Age Ceremony Reminds Us That Hospice is about Living
A bat mitzvah service held on the Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service Care Center
grounds was featured in the August 9, 2007 issue of the
Akron Beacon Journal.
A 13-year-old girl chose to move up her bat mitzvah service a month early so that
her grandfather, who was dying of leukemia, could attend one of her life’s memorable
events.
This service stands as a reminder that the hospice concept is not one of death,
but about empowering individuals to live out their days with dignity and comfort,
while involving their families and loved ones in giving care and having opportunities
to make more memories and reflect on good times.
“It is a wonderful experience when families come to us with their wishes to hold
a ceremony such as this bat mitzvah. Many family events have been held at our Care
Center, including birthday parties, anniversary celebrations and even a wedding.
We emphasize quality of life and living life to the fullest, even to the last days
— that is what makes hospice care so special,” said Debby Berkey, Vice President
of Hospice of VNS.
Read the full article on the
Akron Beacon Journal’s website at:
http://www.ohio.com/news/9055421.html.