An Evening for Hospice - Garden of Hope and Healing
On November 22nd, 2009, nearly 200 people attended
the 11th annual “An Evening for Hospice” at the
Republican River Valley Events Center. The theme,
“Garden of Hope and Healing” was evident by the
complimentary and beautiful live decorations provided by
the staff of Accents, Etc. and Common Scents Garden
Center. The tables were adorned with centerpieces of
live floral bouquets created by Country Floral and
Accents, etc. all purchased by individuals in memory of
their loved ones.
A prime rib catered meal was
prepared and served by Willow Creek Meats under the
direction of Cal Siegfried and Marlene Bedore. Cal wore
two hats that night as he also emceed the evening and
the auction. Once again, Dennis Youngs provided a lively
interchange with Cal while auctioning the many beautiful
donated items.
Each year An Evening for Hospice is
planned by an all volunteer group of 22 women who begin
meeting in July to orchestrate the event. Sub-committees
plan the theme, decorations and program. The theme was
selected to parallel plans for a healing garden as part
of Community Hospital’s expansion plan. The garden will
be adjacent to the two dedicated hospice rooms at the
south end of the new patient wing. It will include
several areas designed for quiet reflection.
The
evening’s program included a video of testimonials from
persons who have experienced hospice care for a loved
one. Hospice caregivers shared their perspectives as
well. The underlying message was that hospice care is a
team approach to the physical, emotional and spiritual
well being of patients and their families. The
philosophy of hospice is to assist all persons to die
with dignity while living life as fully and as
comfortably as possible.
The video was followed by two musical pieces sung by
Dr. Wade Fornander. He chose “Shower the People You
Love” by the Beatles as a message we should all live by.
His second piece was a version of “Amazing Grace”. Dr.
Fornander’s talent and Dr. Richard Klug’s testimonial
sent a wonderful message of compassion from our medical
staff.
Once again, the live and silent auctions were
successful, bringing $34,000 in net proceeds for hospice
services. Highlights included the sale of a full length
mink coat and entertainment package at $2,900, the most
ever raised for one item. Other packages included
tickets and lodging for sporting events, gift
certificates, local talent productions, gourmet meals
and others. Feel free to browse a full listing of
auction packages, their sponsors and successful
purchasers.
We are proud and grateful for all who
contributed to making “An Evening for Hospice” 2009 a
success. Thank you.
On November 22nd, 2009, nearly 200 people attended
the 11th annual “An Evening for Hospice” at the
Republican River Valley Events Center. The theme,
“Garden of Hope and Healing” was evident by the
complimentary and beautiful live decorations provided by
the staff of Accents, Etc. and Common Scents Garden
Center. The tables were adorned with centerpieces of
live floral bouquets created by Country Floral and
Accents, etc. all purchased by individuals in memory of
their loved ones.
A prime rib catered meal was
prepared and served by Willow Creek Meats under the
direction of Cal Siegfried and Marlene Bedore. Cal wore
two hats that night as he also emceed the evening and
the auction. Once again, Dennis Youngs provided a lively
interchange with Cal while auctioning the many beautiful
donated items.
Once again, the live and silent auctions were
successful, bringing $34,000 in net proceeds for hospice
services. Highlights included the sale of a full length
mink coat and entertainment package at $2,900, the most
ever raised for one item. Other packages included
tickets and lodging for sporting events, gift
certificates, local talent productions, gourmet meals
and others. Feel free to browse a full listing of
auction packages, their sponsors and successful
purchasers.