Delaware Hospice, Inc.

This week's Stellar Staff Spotlight is one of our Chaplains, James Cooper! James was initially drawn to Delaware Hospice after learning that our services are available to everyone in the community who needs hospice, including those with financial limitations. He has worked with us for just under two years. "I love providing companionship to patients and their families as they navigate the challenges of illness, loss, and grief. I appreciate the opportunity to celebrate those moments of joy and hope alongside the patient and their families." For fun, James produces music and videos for social media, and loves to roller skate!

To all in our community who celebrate, we wish you a peaceful and reflective Good Friday and a joyful Easter weekend!

Join us on May 12, 2025, at FranksWine for an in-store wine tasting that is sure to be a lovely evening!

Today is #NationalHealthcareDecisionsDay — a perfect reminder to take charge of your future healthcare! Have you completed your advance healthcare directive? This legal document ensures your healthcare wishes are known and respected if you're ever unable to speak for yourself. It's simple to complete, can be updated anytime, and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Whether you're young or old, healthy or facing illness, making your healthcare wishes known now is one of the most important gifts you can give your future self—and your family. At Delaware Hospice, we’re here to help every step of the way. Give us a call or visit https://lnkd.in/evsTdrf6 for resources and guidance on advance care planning.

As part of Volunteer Appreciation Month, we’re honored to spotlight one of our incredible volunteers, Linda Forbes! Linda’s journey with hospice care began when her son was diagnosed with cancer at just 26 years old. During that heartbreaking time, Linda and her family turned to hospice for support. After her son’s passing in 2014, the comfort and care they received made a lasting impact. Seven years ago, Linda made the heartfelt decision to become a volunteer at Delaware Hospice. "It has been very fulfilling to give back. I am thankful to work with such dedicated and wonderful people at Delaware Hospice. God bless you all for the important work you are doing." Outside of volunteering, Linda enjoys singing, reading, and playing pickleball and tennis. Her faith, family, and friends mean everything to her, and we’re so grateful to have her as part of our Delaware Hospice family. 💙

Last week, the Delaware Small Business Chamber hosted its 14th Annual Meeting and Blue Ribbon Awards Brunch at the Chesapeake Inn. We are delighted to announce that Delaware Hospice has been recognized as the People's Choice Best Non-Profit Award winner for the fourth year in a row! Our Events & Outreach Coordinator, Missy Baker, and Provider Services Executive, Kate Wood, proudly represented us at the ceremony. We would also like to congratulate two of our Community Partners, Visiting Angels, for winning the Best in Kent County Award and Aging in Place Senior Care Services for taking home the Best Woman-Owned Business Award!  📸 Courtesy of: Dominic Hanna Photography

Despite the dreary weather outside, the energy was electric inside Harry's Savoy Grill this past Sunday as we gathered for our 2025 Jazz Brunch. With the Red Alert Band keeping the house rocking, guests enjoyed an afternoon of lively music, delicious food and drinks, and friendly bidding on a variety of unique auction items. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we raised just under $40,000 to help further our mission! A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who joined us this past weekend. We are so grateful for your support. And a special shoutout to our longtime friends at Fox & Roach/Trident Charities for celebrating their 30th anniversary with us. Cheers to many more!

Our next Stellar Staff Spotlight is our Quality Outcomes Specialist, Christy Phillippi! After working many 12-hour graveyard shifts in the emergency room during COVID and devoting most of her time in healthcare looking after people facing traumatic situations, Christy wanted a sense of normalcy in her life and to focus on her husband, home, and family. Christy was referred to Delaware Hospice by her best friend, Abby, a nurse at Delaware Hospice, and has worked with us ever since. "My favorite thing about my job is the autonomy as a nurse and the difference I’m able to make for the quality of care for staff and patients. On the day of my interview, I knew I would retire from Delaware Hospice. As I’ve said in the three positions I’ve held here, “No matter what happens, I’m never leaving. So, sorry y’all!"' Christy and her family love all things outdoors. She thoroughly enjoys crabbing, hunting, reading, and singing.

All April long, we're celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Month. This month, we recognize the incredible individuals who give their time and energy to serve others. This past Saturday, our Volunteer Coordinators, Rolonda and Melody, hosted our Annual Volunteer Appreciation event at the Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village! This year's theme, “Delaware Hospice Volunteers Are a Work of HeART,” celebrated the creativity, compassion, and beauty our volunteers bring to our community. Guests enjoyed a relaxing afternoon of painting, laughter, and heartfelt connection. We cannot thank our volunteers enough for all that you do. Your dedication and generosity make an incredible impact in so many lives. You are truly the heart of our mission. 💙

Yesterday, our incredible Human Resources team and Administrative staff hosted an Employee Appreciation Luncheon. Our Newark staff came together for a 'Ready, Set, Bloom' spring-themed celebration, sharing a delicious meal and great company. Laughter filled the room, exciting prizes were raffled off, and our generous friends from the Kenny Family Foundation provided a fantastic lunch! Thank you to everyone who made this event so special!