Knowing that a loved one needs hospice care can be scary. But, by inviting patients and family members to share what matters most in their care, hospice programs can develop a treatment plan that respect their wishes and helps patients receive a better quality of life despite their serious illness.
For Donald, a Carolina Caring hospice patient and Army veteran, the moments that mattered most often centered on sharing his life experiences and the history he worked so hard to preserve.
Donald grew up in a two-room home tucked in the woods of Missouri. He spent many nights sleeping by the warmth of a potbelly stove. As he grew older, Donald and his sisters walked six miles round trip to attend school. The first time Donald slept in a bed of his own was when he joined the United States Army.
Donald was an American hero who fought in both the Vietnam War and the Korean War. He endured hardship, loss, and overcame immense physical, emotional, and spiritual conflict before returning home and retiring from service.
His achievements shaped his lifelong interest in history and collecting. Over the years, Donald built an extraordinary collection of artifacts and keepsakes preserved in a storage shed called his “Dog House”.
At the “Dog House”, friends and loved ones could explore memorabilia collected throughout his life and dating back to the Civil War era. When visitors aren’t dazzled by the bronze statues and newspaper clippings commemorating Donald’s time in service, they are drawn to a large display case proudly showcasing Donald’s ribbons and medals. Among the display is a Silver Star that Donald received from 1-star and 2-star generals.
The “Dog House” is also decorated by his wife’s paintings and artwork, which Donald cherished most of all.
Every item was a physical preservation of the memories and experiences that had shaped his life. Recognizing the significance of those experiences, Donald’s hospice care team arranged a private visit from a veteran volunteer who would honor Donald’s military service, stories, and bravery through a Carolina Caring Veterans Pinning ceremony.
On a sunny Wednesday afternoon, Donald’s nurse, social worker, and veteran volunteer joined his family to commemorate his service. Donald received a special veteran pin, a certificate recognizing his sacrifice in defense of freedom, and a hand-sewn quilted blanket from one of Carolina Caring’s patient volunteers.
His son and daughter, who had spent weeks caring for their father, were also recognized during a brief pinning presentation.
While this ceremony is designed to thank and celebrate veterans for their service, Donald’s response revealed that his thoughts remained with the people who had lost their lives—and those who were currently stepping up—in service to our country.
“Since you are here, thanking me,” he said, “I left a lot of good people over there [in service]. And what makes me strong is knowing that we have a group of individuals coming up today who are brave, who will become medal honor winners and go on to do things that you will not believe could be done.”
His words offered a glimpse into the perspective he had carried throughout his life. Even as he faced the challenges of his own illness, Donald shared his joy and his optimism with everyone around him.
Carolina Caring was humbled to care for Donald and his family during his hospice journey. His story reflects the importance of providing compassionate care that leaves every patient feeling comforted, supported, and celebrated.
To learn more about Carolina Caring’s commitment to caring for veterans, visit carolinacaring.org/veterans-care.
