More Hope for Everyone

When time is of the essence, we’re ready to help create memories that last a lifetime. Knowing that her mother’s condition was quickly worsening, Maureen wanted her to be able to attend her wedding. Hope staff and volunteers sprang into action on short notice, arranging for a photographer, videographer, organist, cake, champagne, and flowers to complete the joyful celebration at the Hope Care Center. With best doggie-woman Biscuit by her side, Maureen walked down the aisle and granted her mother’s most heartfelt wish.

The special bond between people and their pets is like no other. At Hope, we celebrate the unconditional love a cherished dog or cat can provide. Pet Visitors delight people in our care, and volunteers provide support for beloved pets in patients’ homes. Our team even finds homes for pets if they need to join another loving family. Australian Shepherd, Toro, is one of many gentle animals that spread joy throughout Hope.

At seven years old, Sophia was receiving bereavement counseling services from Hope after the loss of her father. A Hope volunteer created “Personal Treasures” – a bear and pillow sewn from the fabric of one of her father’s shirts. Her mother, Alana, said, “I have never seen Sophia fall asleep like this before – so fast and in this position. Thank you.” (Safety note: The car was parked.)

At Hope, birthdays are truly special. It is an honor to celebrate the lives of those in our care, especially when we commemorate 100 spectacular years of life. Each year, Hope hosts birthday parties for people of all ages. We celebrated Ruth’s 103rd birthday with a party that included a sparkly tiara, cuddly gifts, cake, and a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday sung by our team.

Caring for the brave men and women who served our country is a privilege. Hope’s VALOR program acknowledges the sacrifices made by those in uniform and their families. Blaise, who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, returned a special salute to Hope’s Honor Guard. The volunteer Honor Guard presents the American flag, a lapel pin, quilt, veteran bear, and a custom certificate honoring each veteran’s service.

As Erica began spending more time in bed, her senses became increasingly important to her. She worried that she wouldn’t be able to learn to play the piano, which had been a long-held ambition of hers. One of Hope’s music therapists designed the perfect solution. Erica received a lap piano that she could play from bed. All the keys were marked with different colors to help with her vision problems. In her excitement to learn, Erica soon mastered multiple songs, to the delight of her care team.