Hospice of Montgomery holds annual memorial

Hospice of Montgomery holds annual memorial

By Markeshia Ricks

Lorraine Hall said she doesn't know what she and her family would have done if it weren't for Hospice of Montgomery.

They helped her care for her husband of 62 years, Oliver, and it's something she'll never forget.

"It got hard, especially after I tripped over his wheelchair and broke my pelvis," she said. "But his nurse, Marinda, was a godsend."

Oliver Mason Hall was a World War II veteran and a proud member of the Montgomery Masonic Lodge No. 11 for more than 50 years. The 85-year-old had developed Alzheimer's, and died seven months ago.

His name was one of several called Sunday during the Hospice of Montgomery's annual memorial service.

Hospice staff, board members, volunteers and the families of hospice patients gathered at Immanuel Presbyterian Church to honor their loved ones who died in 2008 and 2009.

Nicholas Thornton, 6, attended the service with his father, Willie, and Uncle Alfred to honor his grandmother Louise Thomas.

"I just miss her so much," Nicholas said. "She used to give me Santa boxes with real money in it and I like real money. She would tell me secrets. It was like being friends. I wanted to give her flowers before she died. She was my favorite grandma."

Alfred Thornton said Hospice of Montgomery was not only there to support his mother through her final days, but they were there for the whole family.

"They were a relief valve for the family and they really were there to ease our burdens," he said.

Willie Thornton agreed, adding, "They were able to meet my mother's needs physically, emotionally and spiritually and she trusted them, which made it better for her transition."

Volunteer Amy Webster said supporting families through a loved one's dying days is what it's all about.

She should know. Her grandmother received hospice services and seeing hospice staff in action influenced her decision to become a volunteer.

"Volunteers are so crucial to the program," she said. "They help around the house -- they become part of the family."

Hospice past board president Lee Sims said he could attest to that, having had a loved one who received hospice services.

"It's a real learning experience," he said. "I was amazed by what they really do."

Hospice of Montgomery was the first hospice organized in the state in 1976 by Sister Elizabeth Parpart, director of social services for St. Margaret's Hospital in Montgomery. It is still the only independent, non-profit in Montgomery, according to bereavement counselor Christy Black.

The organization helps every family it can, regardless of its ability to pay or insurance status. It raises money to make sure things stay that way.

Black said the memorial service has been a tradition for the organization for the families of patients who have come through its doors over the years.

"It's sort of a touchstone for them to remember their loved ones and reflect," she said. "I also think it's helpful for them to be around others who have lost someone and to see that a lot of other people have gone through this. It gives them strength."

From a Montgomery Advertiser: November 18th, 2009 News Report
http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009911160305

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