Redeemer Health Hospice Honors Veterans with Special Bedside Tribute

Through its special “We Honor Veterans” program, Redeemer Health Hospice brings inspiring bedside tributes to patients who are former service members.

“Honoring veterans—especially at the end of life—is an honor and a privilege,” says Hospice Clinical Manager Dana Clemons. “Many of our clinicians, including myself, are family members of veterans. Participating in the We Honor Veterans program provides a way for us to respect and serve those who gave to our country.”

One moving tribute came to Ernie*, a 97-year-old World War II Veteran under the care of Redeemer Health Hospice. A nurse learned that when Ernie was deployed to Italy and stationed with his regimen to a hill the Germans occupied, our country was losing the war. Ernie threw a grenade that blew up the hill, but in exchange, the Germans returned a grenade that landed on his abdomen. Ernie was the sole survivor from his regimen.

Grateful to Ernie and all others who sacrifice for their country, the hospice nurse arranged to honor Ernie through the We Honor Veterans program. A team was gathered to present Ernie with a veteran’s certificate, a patriotic blanket, and pin. During the pinning ceremony, a priest anointed Ernie with the sacrament of the sick.

These heartfelt gestures meant the world to Ernie and his family—as it does to the many other veterans we have the privilege to serve.

Redeemer Health Hospice is honored to collaborate with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs in offering the We Honor Veterans program. As a health care system that practices a holistic approach to patient care, we are proud to support the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of the beloved and time-honored veterans who entrust us with their care. Learn more about Redeemer Health Hospice or call 888-678-8678.

*Fictitious name is being used to preserve patient privacy.