Hospice of Wake County Provides Care to an Increasing Number of Patients

Michael Blanchard, Vice-President of Development for Hospice of Wake County, announced today that the organization is serving nearly 30% more patients per day in 2009, providing bereavement care, counseling, respite care, transitional home health care and end of life education. The daily average of 282 patients is up from 219 in 2007 and 157 in 2005.

One family member of a patient who died of liver disease shared her story about Hospice care: "I don’t think I can express my deep appreciation for the team who cared for my dad. Everyone was so attentive to his needs and seemed to genuinely care for him. The nurses were great at keeping me updated on his condition. And his volunteer was extraordinary. The entire team went above and beyond what I could have ever imagined. My heartfelt ‘thank you’ just doesn’t seem sufficient."

"It is gratifying to receive such positive feedback from the families we serve," said Blanchard. "Supporters of the Big Bad Ball play an important role in helping us make a positive difference for our patients and their loved ones at a very difficult time in their lives. Proceeds from last year’s event covered the cost of patient care for nearly 375 days, an important aid to those not covered by Medicare or private insurance."

Hosted by the Young Executives Board of the Capital City Club, the 8th Annual Big Bad Ball (http://www.bigbadball.com) is the gala fundraiser for Hospice of Wake County, a private nonprofit organization that provides compassionate end-of-life care and support for terminally ill patients and their families. The black-tie event will include live music, a silent auction, door prizes, and gourmet food and drink.

About Hospice of Wake County
Your community hospice since 1979, Hospice of Wake County provides physical, emotional and spiritual care to those living with an advanced illness, their caregivers, and those who have lost a loved one regardless of age, race, religion, or financial circumstances. Service areas include Wake, Johnston, Franklin, Durham, and Harnett counties. Guided by community-based boards of directors and supported by a dedicated professional staff, the goal of Hospice of Wake County is to provide compassionate hospice care that allows patients to enjoy every moment of their lives to the fullest. For more information, call 919.828.0890 or visit http://www.hospiceofwake.org.
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