Ball Celebrates Those Who Support and Receive End-of-Life Care
On Saturday, February 1, 2014, approximately 400 people gathered to attend the 22nd Annual Hospice Ball at the Starlite Village in Fort Dodge. Everyone who attended had a different connection, but all shared the same passion: to support UnityPoint Hospice and end-of-life care.
Co-chairs for this year's event were Dr. Mark Marner and RaeAnne Frey Marner and Dr. Jim and Ann Meyer. "Our chosen careers have focused on serving the healthcare needs of individuals and families so it seems appropriate for us to honor the patients and families served in hospice care over the last year," stated Dr. Jim Meyer, who also serves as Medical Director for UnityPoint Hospice. The evening included a buffet dinner, a program honoring those served by UnityPoint Hospice, a silent auction with many donated items and a dance. "It was a wonderful evening, organized with the help of UnityPoint Hospice staff and volunteers," RaeAnne Frey Marner said. "We want to thank everyone who played a role in the success of this event, including the Trinity Foundation, who also supports and assists in this important annual event."
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Debbie Hofbauer Compassionate Caregiver Award. This award is given annually to a UnityPoint Hospice staff member who had a positive impact on the lives of patients and their families. Nominations are accepted throughout the year from family members and a recipient is selected by a committee. This year, UnityPoint Hospice was proud to recognize Erin Blankenberg, R.N.
Trinity Foundation was also presented with a check from the Calisesi Chiropractic Clinic, which sponsors an annual fundraiser to benefit UnityPoint Hospice and presents the proceeds at the Hospice Ball. UnityPoint Hospice is privileged and honored to be the recipient of their efforts.
"All of the proceeds from this event stay in the community to benefit UnityPoint Hospice patients and families at home, in a care facility or at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home," Ann Meyer said. Proceeds support staff education, family education materials, community bereavement programs and Hospice volunteers. Funds also assist patients with supplies or equipment, special celebrations, communication devices, library resources, music, Angel Hands molding, supplies to assist with dementia patients, travel, and care for someone without funds to cover end of life care.
"UnityPoint Hospice has served the Fort Dodge Community for over 30 years. This very important program brings quality end-of-life care to individuals in our community," Dr. Mark Marner said. "Your commitment to this program is outstanding. We thank you and applaud you!"
Learn How You Can Help
If you would like to help support UnityPoint Hospice, consider making a planned gift to the Trinity Health Foundation. Through planned giving, you could make a bigger contribution than you thought was possible. Contact Carol Grannon at (515) 574-6794 or carol.grannon@unitypoint.org to learn more.