A medical study in 2010 found that patients in hospice care at the end of life were more comfortable, and lived an average of two months longer, than patients who were not on hospice. The study reinforces the need to make everyone aware of the benefits of hospice.
Each year, National Hospice Month is observed in November, to help increase awareness. Hope Hospice, a program of Hope HealthCare Services, has planned several events during November, to reach out to the community – to educate, commemorate, support and celebrate.
There are many ways to observe National Hospice Month:
Nov 4: Stop and Smell the Roses
This is a special day of relaxation and personal time for caregivers at First Church of the Nazarene, 13545 American Colony Blvd., Fort Myers. The event is hosted by Right at Home. For more information or to RSVP, contact Peggy Baker at 239-949-1070.
Nov 6: Hope Sabbath
Churches, temples and synagogues throughout Florida are invited to join in a day of reflection, remembering those who are seriously ill and offering support to family caregivers. Visit Hope HCS.org/November for ideas.
Nov 6: Hope Memorial Services
Invite friends and family to attend one of our memorial services. These gatherings are an opportunity to reflect on cherished memories of loved ones. Services will be held at 2 p.m. at locations throughout Hope’s service area. Visit HopeHCS.org/November for specific locations, or call 800-835-1673 for more information.
Nov 6: Heron’s Glen Craft Fair
The community of Heron’s Glen in North Fort Myers invites everyone to attend its Craft Fair to support Hope. Residents will showcase handmade works of art, baked goods and more, with proceeds benefiting Hope Hospice. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 2250 Avenida Del Vera, HGGCC.com
Nov 7 – 12: Shop for Hope at Evelyn & Arthur
With your donation of gently used clothes or handbags, the ladies clothing store Evelyn & Arthur will provide a discount on your purchases of new items. The clothing drive will benefit Hope Chest, the resale store for Hope Hospice. 26851 S. Bay Drive #144, in the Promenade at Bonita Bay, EvelynandArthur.com
Nov 11: Adopt A Family Kickoff
Hope’s 17th annual Adopt A Family holiday gift drive begins! Consider adopting a family in Hope’s care and invite family, friends or co-workers to join you in giving Hope to others for the holidays. Learn more about this program by calling 239-489-9195.
Nov 12: Danny’s Lazy Daze 11th Annual Celebration
For more than a decade, the patrons of Danny’s Lazy Daze Saloon in Fort Myers have gathered to remember friends and enjoy festive camaraderie to benefit Hope Hospice. This annual event has raised more than $40,000 for Hope Hospice. Cheers! 16200 San Carlos Blvd., 239-466-8400
Nov 12 & 13: Sanctuary Tennis Tournament
The 9th Annual Hope Hospice Tennis Challenge at The Sanctuary on Sanibel Island is sure to be a hit! The event, open to the public, includes men’s and women’s doubles in 3.0, 3.5. 4.0 and 4.5. The format is single elimination with consolation rounds. Bracket winners and finalists receive awards designed by artist Lucas Century. The $75 entry fee includes breakfast and lunch both days. Proceeds benefit Hope Hospice. Contact Christie Bradley for details, to sponsor or to join in the fun. 239-472-5276.
Nov 20: Ride 4 Hope
When longtime Hope volunteer Bill Curtis decided to ride his bicycle for as many miles as his age, he blazed a trail many have since followed. Bill asked his friends and family to support him by riding along or donating to his favorite charity, Hope Hospice. This became the Ride 4 Hope.
On Sunday, November 20th, the ride will take place with various routes that begin at Joanne’s House at Hope Hospice in Bonita Springs. Check-in begins at 7 a.m.
Ride Options include: 62 mile ride (100K), 50 mile ride (80K), and 25 mile ride (40K). Registration Fee is $25 plus a minimum donation collection of $100 per rider. Online registration and more information are available at HopeHCS.org/ride or call 239-489-9164.
