No One Is Alone

No One Is AloneOne day an old man was walking along a beach littered with thousands of starfish that had been washed ashore by the high tide.

As he walked he came upon a young boy who was eagerly throwing the starfish back into the ocean... one by one.

Puzzled, the man looked at the boy and asked what he was doing. Without looking up from his task, the boy simply replied, "I'm saving these starfish, Sir."

The old man chuckled aloud, "Son, there are thousands of starfish and only one of you. What difference can you make?"

The boy picked up a starfish, gently tossed it into the water and turning to the man said, "I made a difference to that one!"

 

The Concern

We have a significant homeless population across Arkansas and Mississippi, and an increasing number of others who lack the resources and relational support needed to receive appropriate healthcare services. A sub-group of the homeless population is suffering from a terminal illness and needs hospice services. End-of-life care for the indigent who are nearing the end of their journey are at risk of passing away uncared for and alone.

When asked what they fear most about death, the homeless frequently provide the following answers:

  • Fear of not receiving appropriate care due to the stigma associated with homelessness.
  • Fear of a prolonged, painful, and lonely death.
  • Fear of an un-memorialized death.
  • Fear of what will be done with their bodies after death.

The Tribute of Life Foundation seeks to make a difference in the lives of those who are homeless and fearful about the end of their journey. We are asking others to join us as we work toward better outcomes for those who are most at risk of passing without anyone to care.

The Challenge

Like the boy and the starfish, we can’t help everyone, but we can make a real difference for some with the 'No One is Alone' initiative.

Hospice employees launched the first fundraising effort to support the 'No One is Alone' initiative in 2018. Their gift dedicated one room at the Comfort Care Center to the initiative. Hospice Home Care and Spring Valley Hospice corporately matched that gift by dedicating one more room to the effort in 2019.

Partner physicians make referrals to the 'No One is Alone' initiative to place eligible patients at the Comfort Care Center.

Hospice Home Care’s Comfort Care Center has generously dedicated two rooms to the needs of indigent hospice patients. These rooms represent all of the medical care, trained professional staff, and resources needed to care for someone suffering with a terminal illness, or injury who is nearing the end of their journey. Located in Little Rock at 2200 Bowman Road, the Comfort Care Center has the highest staffing levels, with 24-hour Registered Nurse staffing, and significant levels of Aide support. Physicians and Nurse Practitioners also make rounds daily. Additional services provided by hospice include:

  • 24/7 Registered Nurse coverage
  • Physician or Nurse Practioner Care available as needed
  • Bathing and personal care by a certified nursing assistant
  • Regular visits from the Hospice Chaplain, Social Worker and Volunteer Coordinator
  • Hospice-trained and certified volunteer support
  • Family bereavement services
  • Medical equipment and supplies

The Future of Hospice Care

Students from Hendrix College in Searcy, who are planning to become physicians, recently spent a significant number of days volunteering at the Comfort Care Center. They were encouraged to think and reflect upon matters surrounding end-of-life care, and interact with patients and families. The response was incredible! Watch the video to see students, faculty, and hospice staff members share their perspectives on the experience.

You are invited to join us in making a difference in the lives of those who otherwise will pass away uncared for and alone.

Hospice services are covered by Medicare or Medicaid, private insurance, private pay or through charitable care. This care is provided to all in need of our services regardless of age, sex, race, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, color, national origin, religion, citizenship status, veteran status, illness, handicap, disability or ability to pay.

Volunteer

You can make a difference by joining a group of truly amazing people in your community who are giving their time and talents to create better days for hospice patients and their families.

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