New Study on Hospice Care Provides Answers and Reasons for Concern

The National Hospice and Palliative Care association reports in a new study that the number of patients receiving hospice care continues to increase. While this news is encouraging, it is troubling that a large number of those patients are in hospice care for less than a week.

It is difficult for families to confront the reality of a loved one's impending death, but hospice should enter the discussion sooner rather than later. It is capable of bringing comfort to patients and families, and through that comfort, eliminating some of the outlying concerns that so often accompany such a painful and difficult period.

Blue Skies Hospice is staffed by competent and compassionate nurses, doctors, clergy, social workers, and volunteers to ensure that palliative care for patients brings peace of mind and body. Additional time spent in hospice allows the staff to prepare the patient and family for the upcoming change, spiritually and emotionally, rather than just physically and medicinally.

Read the new study to learn about the growth of hospice care. The study does demonstrate that American culture is learning the value of hospice care, and that is a promising development.

Hammond Volunteer Award Ceremony

On October 25th, 2012 Blue Skies Hospice staff and volunteers attended the annual volunteer awards ceremony in Hammond, Indiana, hosted by Mayor Thomas M. McDermott Jr. The reception united volunteers and rewarded those who serve their community. Blue Skies Hospice is appreciative and grateful to the Mayor for taking the time to acknowledge the important work of volunteers in the city of Hammond.

(From left to right) Arlene Bakota R.N., Volunteer Coordinator Pearl Masciotra, Volunteer Pat DeGan, Volunteer Julie Hancin, Chaplain Buddie Fennie, Director Lisa Guzman (seated)

Blue Skies Hospice Hosts Ice Cream Social at Hammond-Whiting Care Center

On October 7, 2012, Blue Skies Hospice organized and hosted an ice cream social at Hammond-Whiting Care Center. Residents and their families attended the party, enjoyed ice cream, and had a great time. Blue Skies staff was happy to host the event, look forward to hosting more in the future.

Resident enjoys her ice cream sundae.

Residents having a good time

(From left to right) Volunteer coordinator Pearl Masciotra, R.N. Karen Lansdowne, Volunteer Pat DeGan, John DeGan, Volunteer Julie Hancin

Dance On a Dime: Blue Skies Hospice Organizing Prom Fundraiser

Blue Skies Hospice is organizing a prom fundraiser , Dance on a Dime, for 2013. Blue Skies is collecting dresses and accessories to sell at a discounted rate for this school year's prom season.

If you have any used, dry cleaned dresses, accessories, or gently worn shoes in your closet, please donate them to Blue Skies Hospice. Drop off any donations at one of the following locations:

Blues Skies Hospice House
2714 169th Street
Hammond, Indiana 46323

or

Pearl Masciotra
117 Cardinal Ct.
Dyer, Indiana 46311

We appreciate any help. Thank you.

Blue Skies Hosts Ice Cream Social at Kindred Care

On September 9th, Blue Skies Hospice hosted an ice cream social for residents of Kindred Care in Dyer, Indiana. Residents and families helped themselves to ice cream treats, and games, which made for a fun afternoon.

Kindred Care residents and families enjoying the event

Kindred Care resident Michelle

Blue Skies Hospice staff and volunteers who hosted the event

Online Fundraiser for Blue Skies Library Restoration Plans

Blue Skies Hospice is committed to restoring a library building in Hammond, Indiana into an adult day care center and health clinic. The plan and project will result in a healthier and friendlier Hammond, while serving as an example of compassion in action.

More information about the plan and project, along with an opportunity to donate is available here: http://www.razoo.com/story/Sawyer-Library-Restoration

In Rememberance of Clara Kamona

Blue Skies Hospice mourns the passing of Clara Kamona, RN at Kindred Care of Dyer, who passed on September 1st, 2012.

Think of her as living in the hearts of those she touched. For nothing loved is ever lost and she was loved so much! To Clara's family, friends, and coworkers - Please accept our condolences. Our prayers and thoughts will be with you as you go through this difficult and sad time.