As a result of my involvement as a hospice volunteer, I (Gary) have became aware of the important work these organizations are doing.  For those of you, who are as unknowledgeable as I was about this work, I invite you to become acquainted by reading the following.

The hospice movement to assist terminally ill patients and their loved ones has only been in existence in the United States since 1974.  During that time, over 3100 hospice organizations have formed.  In 1998, they served 540,000 terminally ill patients.  Why has there been such a tremendous response to hospice care?  This success points to the needs of terminally ill people and the ability of hospice organizations to meet those needs. 

If you are unfamiliar with the care provided by hospice organizations, you will probably be surprised to learn that it is not designed to cure disease or illness.  Instead, hospice services assist the terminal patient who can no longer benefit from curative treatment.  This palliative approach of hospice treatment helps the terminal patient live life as fully and comfortably as possible.  This goal is accomplished through medical methods for pain and symptom control.  In addition, hospice organizations work to meet the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of the patients and their loved ones as they make the transitions through life's final phase. 

Much of the funding of hospice care comes from the donations of organizations and private individuals.  In addition, much of the care and support is supplied by volunteers.  To find out how you can help the hospice organization in your area through your financial contributions and time, contact the National Hospice Organization.  You can also contact them to learn more about hospice care, who qualifies for it, and hospice organizations in your area at www.nho.org.