Sierra Hospice -- Compassion and Concern
Sierra Hospice in Chester has been providing end-of-life support and comfort to patients and their families since 1981.
Patient Coordinator, Judith Lee says, “We are here to help when the time comes that medical treatment is no longer an option. The goal of our volunteer organization is not to “treat” the patient but to offer comfort, resources and dignity during the last stages of life. Our intent is to help make the process as comfortable as possible for the patient and family by offering physical, emotional, spiritual and psychosocial support and caregiver respite as requested.” Services include loaning medical equipment such as canes, walkers and wheelchairs that provide patients the ability to go outdoors, walk around the house or just sit comfortably on the porch and watch the world go by.
Sierra Hospice offers services to all in the Greater Lake Almanor Basin and is funded through grants, community donations, fundraising events, Shop & Save discount cards and proceeds from “Forget-Me-Not” -- the popular thrift store where necessities and treasures can be found.
November is Palliative Care / Hospice month and that’s when Sierra Hospice puts on three community events to remember patients and their families. First, is the Memorial Lights display. Trees are lit and decorated with ornaments bearing the name(s) of loved ones who have passed. Perpetual ornaments can be purchased for $100 and annual ornaments are available for $25. The memorial trees are lit for the entire month of November and are displayed at various locations around town.
Also, in November Hospice holds a Community Supper hosted by Carol Franchetti, owner of Carols’ Café in Prattville. The dinner is free but donations are welcomed.
To provide for spiritual needs, Sierra Hospice holds an annual nondenominational Hospice Sabbath service of reflection and remembrance on the third week of November. This is celebrated with either candles or a white rose ceremony held at various religious centers.
For solitude and contemplation, Sierra Hospice also maintains a labyrinth garden that was recently relocated to Chester Cemetery and is open year-round, weather permitting.
Sierra Hospice is always seeking volunteers and resource donations to help meet the needs of patients and families during a difficult time. For more information, please contact Hospice coordinator Judith Lee at 530.258.3412, by email at sierrahospice@frontier.com , visit us on the web at www.sierrahospice.com, or on Facebook at sierrahospice.com or drop by the office located at 150 Brentwood Drive next to Seneca Hospital.
