When Mary Anne decided to seek hospice care for Marie, a close family member with developmental delays living at a nearby facility for individuals with physical and mental disabilities, she knew exactly where to turn: the Joe Raso Hospice Residence at United Hospice a long standing non-profit provider serving both Orange and Rockland Counties. Mary Anne felt confident that Marie would receive the care, compassion, and love she deserved in her remaining years.
Mary Anne was already familiar with United Hospice’s mission and staff, having supported the organization through memorial donations and her involvement with the Tree of Life program as both a donor and a volunteer. She knew that the Joe Raso Hospice Residence was the perfect place for Marie.
“Marie was a developmentally delayed adult who spent nearly 40 years in a home for developmentally delayed children,” Mary Anne recalled. “She was left there by her father at the age of 12, and her life took a different path after that—one that was, to say the least, challenging. At the time of her passing, she was a kind, gentle, funny 89-year-old with the mind of an 8-year-old. I wanted her to be treated with dignity, care, and compassion—and for once in her life, to feel like the most special person in the residence.”
Marie’s story, along with Mary Anne’s positive experience with United Hospice, reflects the broader impact of this nonprofit organization, which has been serving the communities of Orange and Rockland counties in New York’s Hudson Valley for over 35 years. United Hospice’s compassionate approach to end-of-life care has touched many lives, providing comfort and support to patients and families.
Cara Pace, CEO of United Hospice, explained that the concept of hospice has a rich and meaningful history.
“The word ‘hospice’ comes from the Latin term ‘hospitum,’ which means hospitality, a place of rest and safety for the sick and weary,” Pace said. “This idea dates back to 1065 when facilities were created to provide comfort and care to those traveling to the Holy Land.”
The modern concept of hospice was pioneered by Dame Cicely Saunders, a British nurse who revolutionized end-of-life care in 1967. Inspired by her own health struggles, Saunders emphasized prioritizing the patient’s well-being over the illness and recognizing the importance of supporting the patient’s loved ones during this challenging time.
As a nonprofit, United Hospice prioritizes patient care over financial gain. The team invests significant time and effort into providing comprehensive and personalized support for each patient. With a full-time, board-certified medical director specializing in hospice and palliative care, United Hospice offers round-the-clock support through a unique service delivery model that includes house calls by expert physicians.
Emotions play a significant role in physical health, especially for patients entering hospice care. Dr. David Chmielewski, United Hospice’s Medical Director, explained the importance of providing not just medical care, but also emotional and spiritual support.
“That’s why our team strives to enhance the quality of life for our patients and their families, especially when time matters most,” Dr. Chmielewski said. “We care for patients of all ages with advanced illnesses, such as cancer, heart disease, kidney and liver disease, and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, ALS, Alzheimer’s, and dementia.”
United Hospice provides specialized care for patients facing advanced illnesses, and patients, families, and healthcare providers often reach out to them when they need expert, compassionate end-of-life care.
For Mary Anne, this holistic approach to care was crucial when deciding where to place Marie in her final days.
“I knew the Joe Raso Hospice Residence was the right place for Marie, and when I realized her time was coming to an end, there was no hesitation in making the request for placement,” she recalled.
Joe Raso Hospice Residence, one of New York State’s premier hospice residences, provides patients with ten private, spacious suites. Each room is designed to offer comfort and privacy for both patients and visiting family members, with convertible furniture for overnight stays.
Families and friends are encouraged to visit patients and can enjoy the Great Room, a space for reading, relaxing by the fireplace, or enjoying views of the beautiful courtyard. Joe Raso also features private contemplation rooms and spaces where patients and families can meet with social workers or have private visits.
In addition to medical care, patients at Joe Raso can participate in activities like music therapy, massage, and pet therapy, all designed to enhance their well-being.
This environment was ideal for Marie’s medical and social needs, just as it has been for the hundreds of patients and families who have benefited from United Hospice’s approach to end-of-life care over the past three decades. Mary Anne has some advice for families who may be considering hospice care:
“Don’t wait! Visit United Hospice and the Joe Raso Hospice Residence if being away from home is your choice. The expertise and compassion of the hospice staff allow family members to focus on valuable time with their loved ones. It’s truly a gift.”
To learn more about the Joe Raso Hospice Residence or explore hospice care options for patients wishing to remain in their own homes, visit www.unitedhospiceinc.org or call 845-634-4974.