The following story appeared in our Summer 23 Newsletter. You can read the newsletter by clicking HERE.
As we celebrate the first anniversary of The Star Hospice House, CHPC had a conversation with Jessica Dayton, the granddaughter of TSHH’s first patient, Nancy Neal. Nancy, a lively and self-reliant 92-year-old, had spent her entire life in Lakewood, living in the very home where she was born. When she was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, her family faced a tough decision about her care. Choosing not to pursue treatment at her age, Nancy received in-home care while her family took turns supporting her. The in-home help was excellent, but as her needs grew, it became clear that she required a higher level of care. The Hospice staff, along with the in-home care team, stepped in with compassionate support.
One of Nancy’s caseworkers suggested The Star Hospice House, which was soon to open—an environment more like home than a nursing facility. The family decided to wait, hoping to provide Nancy with the comfort of familiar surroundings in her final days. In July of 2022, Nancy moved into The Star Hospice House, and it filled her heart with joy.
The Star Hospice House, with its peaceful atmosphere and caring staff, became a sanctuary for Nancy. She cherished being close to the area she had always known, surrounded by the love and support of her nearby family. The personalized care from the staff left a lasting impression on her, and she formed a special bond with the compassionate team members.
“Within The Star Hospice House, my grandmother found not just comfort but a sense of home,” shared Jessica Dayton, granddaughter of Nancy. “The caring staff made every moment count, and she treasured being the first patient. As we celebrate the first anniversary, we hold dear the impact and support provided by Hospice for Grandma and our family.”
Looking back on the year since The Star Hospice House opened, the Hospice team warmly remembers Nancy and the impact she had on them. The house, equipped with five beds, has become a haven for those seeking compassionate end-of-life care.
Reaching the first anniversary, the family remains grateful for The Star Hospice House and the warmth it provided. Celebrating Nancy’s life and the positive impact of the house, they reflect on a year filled with love, compassion, and cherished memories. The legacy of The Star Hospice House continues to shine brightly, touching many families in their time of need.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of The Star Hospice House and reflect on the heartwarming journey of compassionate care that began with our very first patient, Nancy Neal, we are filled with immense gratitude for the outpouring of support from our incredible community. Your generosity has
played a vital role in making our hospice house a sanctuary of comfort and dignity for families facing life’s most challenging moments.
We are proud to be part of a community that helped us raise $2.8 million towards The Star Hospice House, a testament to the unwavering commitment of our community in upholding the legacy of The Star Hospice House. With your help, we have been able to provide exceptional end-of-life care, ensuring that our patients and their families find solace and compassion in their time of need.
As we move forward, we seek your continued support to maintain our high level of care and expand our reach to touch even more lives. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact and enables us to offer personalized services and support to those facing the most challenging moments of their lives.
Your contribution to The Star Hospice House not only honors the memory of Nancy Neal, but also brings hope and comfort to countless families who rely on our compassionate care. Together, we can continue to be a beacon of light in the lives of those in need, providing them with the warmth and care they
deserve.
Thank you for being an essential part of our hospice family and for joining us on this meaningful journey of love and compassion.
With heartfelt appreciation,
The Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care Team
