Hospice of the Chesapeake recognizes the many sacrifices of our country’s Veterans and their families. In response we have developed a pioneering program focused on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening and grateful acknowledgment based on their unique needs. Through this program, our team learns how to accompany and guide them through their life stories toward a more peaceful ending. It surprises many people to learn that 680,000 Veterans die every year in the US. At Hospice of the Chesapeake, close to 25% of our hospice patients are Veterans.
Hospice of the Chesapeake has embraced multiple elements of a recognition and remembrance program that benefits our patients who served in our armed services:
Vet to Vet Volunteer Program – an innovative volunteer model for serving Veterans at the end of life. The Vet-to-Vet Volunteer Program aims to pair recruited Veteran Volunteers with Veteran hospice patients. Once paired, Veteran Volunteers have the unique ability to relate and connect with Veteran patients and their families.
Education – We have educated our hospice team to identify and respond to the unique physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs of Veterans. We also strive to provide education to our local communities and civic organizations on the individualized experiences of our Veterans.
Honor Salute – In partnership with the United States Naval Academy, local active duty military, and our hospice volunteers, we visit the residence of a Veteran in our care. Upon arrival, they conduct a formal ceremony of recognition and appreciation for their military service. Veteran patients are saluted, presented with a certificate of appreciation, pinned and presented with a patriotic quilt handmade by sewing groups from the community. This unique program brings together family and friends to celebrate what is often the last time these men and women are publicly thanked for their service.
Group Honor Salutes – In partnership with our local community healthcare partners, we work together to salute all Veterans residing at skilled nursing and assisted living centers with a recognition ceremony. This collective experience brings together like-minded organizations to honor those who have served our country.