A symbolic groundbreaking ceremony for the new Hope Hospice building was held Thursday morning in Lehigh Acres. From left: Lee County commissioner Frank Mann, Kraft Construction CEO Fred Pezeshkan, Hope HealthCare Services President and CEO Samira Beckwith, U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, and Hope Hospice Chairman of the Board Dick Ackert.

Originally published in the Fort Myers News-Press

U.S. Rep. Connie Mack joined Hope Healthcare Services President and CEO Samira Beckwith in the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Hope Hospice House in Lehigh Acres, Thursday morning.

“This is a very special and unique opportunity to bring hope close to home,” said Beckwith.

Mack said he has personally attested the benefits that Hope Hospice brings to the community. “It truly makes a difference in people’s lives,” he said.

The event, held at 9 Beth Stacey Lane, included a symbolic groundbreaking ceremony by Mack, Beckwith, Kraft Construction CEO Fred Pezeshkan, Lee County commissioner Frank Mann and Hope Hospice Chariman of the Board Dick Ackert.

The 45,000-sq.-ft. hospice will include 24 private patient case suites, counseling offices, a chapel and community education rooms.

A $5 million capital campaign is underway to collect funds to offset the new building, scheduled to open in 2010.