Alyssa Roberts

Alyssa Roberts
Grand Junction, CO

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado

I am honored to be a volunteer in our local community.   One place particularly is extra close to my heart.   Having lost a Dad and Sister after their battle with cancer, the meaning of what Hospice does is understood so much greater.  I am not sure that many are truly aware of what the facility offers, so below I will "brief" you....... PLEASE READ, it's amazing!

Usually when your loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal disease or illness, he or she receives care from Hospice.  For so many the care is costly and they cannot afford the amount over and above what their insurance covers.    Generous Donors in our community are pledging continually and Fundraisers throughout the year are held.   Event coordinating is what I volunteer with!

Oh, but wait....there is so much more that Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado does in our community!!!    Did you know that even after the passing of a family member, they continue to reach out to the family of the deceased??    Grief-Counselling is a huge part of where the fundraiser dollars go.  Their 'Forget-Me-Knot' workshop brings tears to my eyes... the little children that have lost a parent bring a favorite clothing item that was worn by their dad or mom, and are taught to hand-make teddy bears and blankets out of the garment!   All year long camps and workshops for various age groups are held, and the love and care reaches on and on and on.

I cannot express the spirit of fulfillment and overwhelming joy it brings to volunteer here, but it must be contagious because my husband has even joined me!
The most recent event we participated in was the Black Tie and Boots last week, on January 15th.   I could not have imagined a more perfect way to spend my Birthday!   For months prior to the "glamorous" evening, I have been helping collect silent auction items that were generously donated by business owners in Mesa County.  I also helped at the workshops where volunteers created the decor and props that made the ballroom "sparkle" and "shine"!  Then on the night of the event, we volunteered wherever needed while wearing our finest! What fun!!
 
Volunteers are the heart of hospice.  If you did not know how many lives this facility touches, I hope I have given you a small glimpse.   You should consider becoming a volunteer...it is rewarding!  Here is the link if you would like more information  http://www.hospicewco.com/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3321