Partnering with the Greensboro Historical Museum to Better Serve Veterans
July 23, 2012
Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro (HPCG) recently partnered with the Greensboro Historical Museum (GHM) to host a presentation for volunteers, administrative and clinical staff entitled, What It Was Like to be a Soldier. The presentation was given by Matthew Young, assistant director at GHM, and coincides with the museum’s oral history project, Service and Sacrifice.
“Young’s presentation painted a very real picture of what our veterans went through during active duty and peace time,” remarked Lynn Duffy, social worker. “Currently, I see a growing number of veterans in the long-term care communities. Having access to certificates and flags to give them, is a great way to celebrate patients’ lives. It is a privilege to express appreciation to these men and women for serving our country.”
It surprises many Americans to learn that 25 percent of all deaths in the US are veterans. That’s 1,800 people a day and more than 680,000 veteran deaths every year. As the nation continues to honor these American heroes for their military service, it is important to remember that they also deserve recognition and compassionate care at the end of life’s journey.
HPCG is helping healthcare professionals honor veterans by recognizing the unique needs of these men and women who are facing a life-limiting illness. It has joined more than 1,000 hospice organizations across the country in support of the We Honor Veterans initiative by increasing its skills and capacity for serving veterans.
As HPCG makes strides to reach Level Three status by late fall, increasing organizational capacity to serve veterans is a top priority. “In-service trainings for administrative and clinical staff like the one presented by the museum increase sensitivity and awareness about veterans,” said Meghan Davis, director of long-term care. Over the next several months, HPCG will continue to increase community education, organizational policies and hospice-veteran partnerships.
HPCG, a nonprofit organization serving Greater Greensboro for more than 30 years, is situated on an eight-acre campus at 2500 Summit Avenue. HPCG provides physical, emotional and spiritual support for children and adults faced with a life-limiting illness, as well as their caregivers and families. For more information, contact HPCG at 336.621.2500 or hospicegso.org.
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