[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 156 (Saturday, November 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2237]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         NATIONAL HOSPICE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ALLEN BOYD

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 7, 1997

  Mr. BOYD. Mr. Speaker, in honor of National Hospice Month, I would 
like to take a moment to recognize the two hospices which serve the 
communities in my district, Big Bend Hospice and the Hospice of 
Northwest Florida-Panama City, and thank them for their invaluable 
contributions to North Florida's families.
  Hospice care involves a team of professionals, including physicians, 
nurses, therapists, home care aides, counselors and volunteers who help 
terminally ill patients and their families share their final days at 
home in peace, comfort and dignity. These hospice caregivers help 
patients, as well as their family members, with one of the toughest 
transitions in life. The hospice program, primarily based in the home, 
treats the person, not the disease; focuses on the family, not the 
individual; and emphasizes the quality of life. Hospice care ensures 
that the patient's life is as fulfilling and satisfying as possible, 
right up to the last moment.
  Hospice care has played an important role in my life. Two years ago, 
I lost my father to cancer. I do not know what my mother and my family 
would have done without the care that Big Bend Hospice provided. The 
hospice allowed my father to die at home, in dignity, surrounded by the 
people who love him. I want to thank the caregivers who helped my 
family through a very difficult time. My family and I will never forget 
their commitment and compassion.

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