November is a time we formally honor our Veterans for Veterans’ Day. Being a hospice care provider, we also celebrate National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. How do these two go together? The NHPCO in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs developed the “We Honor Veterans” program.
WHV empowers us to meet the unique needs of Veterans and their families by implementing ongoing Veteran-centered education for staff and volunteers, community outreach and Veteran recognition. By recognizing the needs of our nation’s Veterans facing a life-limiting illness, we are better able to accompany and guide Veterans and their families toward a more peaceful ending. We Honor Veterans has given us the tools to support our patients by focusing on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening and grateful acknowledgement.
Mt. Hood Hospice staff are honored to be able to present a “Quilts of Valor” quilt to our Veteran patients during small recognition ceremonies. The local “Quilts of Valor” organization graciously donated patriotic themed quilts handmade by their volunteers, which we have presented to patients that served from WWII to Vietnam.
A tiered recognition of up to 5 stars is offered to those that demonstrate a systematic commitment to improving care for Veterans. Mt. Hood Hospice recently achieved their first star and will continue moving upward. We are proud to serve those who served us and are available to answer questions about Veteran benefits and care.