Board Director Victor Espinosa said Hospice has a small, albeit, “wonderful staff” and volunteers that work both inside and outside the office.
His own first exposure to Hospice was when his mother was terminally ill and in a coma.
The family was gathered at her house when his mother rallied and told Espinosa the reason she regained consciousness was to tell him to “Never shut the door on anyone...” which led to his devotion to helping others through Hospice.
Board Director Gary Nasalroad introduced Santa Paula Police Chief Steve McLean, the featured speaker.
McLean said his own experience with Hospice was when his father was terminally ill: “He passed away at home, which brought peace of mind and comfort to my father,” and lessened his mother’s anxiety.
For the closing, Valdes again emphasized that Hospice is a volunteer organization, and “The reason this works is because we work...it’s all free we don’t turn anyone down and we don’t turn anyone away.”
Fundraisers scheduled this year to support Hospice services include the annual Giant Plant Sale held with America in Bloom (April 12-13), the annual Western Casino Night (June 21) and the debut of the Santa Paula Chili Cook-Off (May 24).
Santa Clara Valley Hospice/Home Support Group, Inc. provides physical, emotional, spiritual, and social support to persons with life-limiting illnesses. The client and the family are one unit of care, with trained volunteers placed to provide respite care and other services as appropriate. Bereavement and support services are also provided for the community at large, with special emphasis on support of the elderly. No fees are charged for Hospice services.
Hospice provides information and referral to services as well as assists with medical transport for doctor visits and medical therapies.
Hospice supports discussion of vital end-of-life issues and concerns with staff and volunteers that are trained and dedicated to add to the quality of life of clients and their families.
For more information call Hospice, 805-525-1333.