Times Guardian to host Hope Hospice Tree of Lights
Ida Castillo
Times Guardian Staff Writer
The Canyon Lake Times Guardian welcomes the Hope Hospice tree of light Monday, December 6 at 5 p.m. as part of the community effort to help Hope Hospice raise $100,000 in donations for patient care.
"This tree truly symbolizes the light of the holiday season as well as the spirit of hospice service to our community," says Stephanie Bascon, Tree of Lights Committee Chairwoman in a press release.
Hope Hospice was founded in1984 on the idea that everyone living a life-threatening illness deserves to live the best life possible. This is way no patient, regardless of their ability to pay, is turned away. Hope Hospice is able to help patients live as normal as possible with the help of good samaritans throughout the community who donate time and money to their cause.
Hope Hospice offers care to help alleviate pain while maintaining dignity, purpose and peace. Its medical staff and social workers also help those who are suffering with other daily needs. Because these patients are most often unable to work, many need assistance with housing, meals and clothing. Hope Hospice works hard to provide a comfortable living environment for patients who may be in the twilight of their life.
Patients like Larry Kohlenberg who struggles with a terminal lung disease and liver failure and has been given six months or less to live. Upon hearing his prognosis, Kohlenberg decided he wanted to live out the remainder of his days in the beautiful Hill Country.
Hope Hospice is helping him do just that.
"This is God's country," said Kohlenberg, "When he comes to get me he won't have to reach too far."
Hope Hospice social workers help people like Kohlenberg find living assistance and try to connect them with other good samaritans willing the help. Head quartered in New Braunfels, Hope Hospice accepts donations of all sorts on behalf of its patience. It operates a thrift store were patients can find clothing as well as other living supplies donated by the kindness of others.
"People often have a lot of needs for food, housing, etc." said Betty Morris, Hope Hospice social worker. "We can help put them in touch with community resources."
"[Hope] Hospice has been my life support," said Kohlenberg.
The non-profit organization also offers many volunteer opportunities including the 11th Hour program in which volunteers stay with patients during their final hours while nurses help maintain comfort.
"When it comes down to the line, I know that Hope Hospice will be there holding my hand," said Kohlenberg.
Hope Hospice also provides bereavement support for family and friends of those suffering from terminal illness.
The tree lighting ceremony an Angel Luminaria Walk will be held in front of Canyon Lake Times Guardian beginning at 5 p.m. Donations and proceeds from the purchase of luminaries will go directly toward patient care. Santa will also be there for photo opportunities.
| Subscribe | Get the Times Guardian delivered to your doorstep each week. | |
| Advertise | We'll help you reach your customers in print or online. | |
| News Tips | Submit story ideas or news tips. | |
| Opinion | Send a letter to the editor. |
| Copyright © 2004 Times Guardian. All rights reserved. |