Page 50 - Senior Link Magazine Fall 2020- Online Magazine
P. 50

HONORING SENIORS


       In Word and in Deed






       by Sydney Wenglein M.S., LMFT-A Hospice of Lubbock Bereavement Counselor





























                 ospice of Lubbock has been serving the
                 Lubbock community and surrounding areas for
          Hover 30 years. In addition to quality care for our
          adult and pediatric terminally ill patients, Hospice of
          Lubbock’s 4-star level “We Honor Veterans” program
          has taken great pride in serving over 600 veterans since
          2013. This evolving group, which has now grown to
          include over 18 committee members of our community,
          alongside Hospice of Lubbock’s own social workers,
          counselors, nurses, and other staff, is proud to honor
          and serve veterans not just with words, but in a variety
          of purposeful actions.

          Food Pantry
          Most recently, as a result of the COVID19 pandemic,
          “We Honor Veterans” has expanded upon what was
          a small idea to provide food, hygiene, and paper
          items to veterans on hospice service in immediate
          need. Our food pantry has grown exponentially, and
          we have provided over 100 bags of these items to
          veterans in need over the past few months, not only
          to our own veterans on service, but also to veterans
          throughout the community, through contacts with the   there is a sacredness that comes with honoring a
          Veterans Administration. What started out as a vision   fallen solider. “We Honor Veterans” has adopted the
          during a trying time is now making a huge impact      Final Salute, which is a powerful memorial ceremony
          in the community.  The program has received local     bringing one last recognition to the veteran and his or
          recognition, and the “We Honor Veterans” committee    her family. In a meticulous, structured final salute, a
          does not plan on stopping this new initiative.        nurse and other providers, including the funeral home
                                                                staff drape the American flag over the body before
          Final Salute                                          proceeding to the hearse. As the gurney is wheeled
          Honoring a soldier can take a variety of forms, but   from the house, the family, friends, and care team of the



      50   Senior Link
   45   46   47   48   49   50   51   52   53   54   55