As members of the tri-state community, it is not necessary to bear the weight of loss alone. The Hospice of Dubuque Tree of Life Memorial Service provides an occasion to share music, reflections and memories, as we find the courage to remember those we love, expressing our joy in sharing their lives and our sadness in being separated from them.

The Hospice of Dubuque Board of Directors, Staff and Volunteers invite the entire community to gather in Washington Park for this year’s annual Hospice of Dubuque Tree of Life Memorial Service and Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, May 22, at 7:30 pm. The tree, decorated with lights representing each person remembered or honored, will remain lit through Memorial Day.

To remember someone with a light on the tree, send a tax-deductible gift of any amount, along with the name of your loved one, to Hospice of Dubuque. The name of your loved one will be printed in the Tree of Life program if the gift is received by Friday, May 18. All donations are used to continue the mission of providing compassionate care for the terminally ill and their loved ones.

Due to limited seating, please bring your lawn chairs. In the event of rain, the service will be held in the Knights of Columbus Building, 781 Locust Street. We sincerely hope you will join us.

Again this year, Behr’s Funeral Home is the sponsor of advertising for the Tree of Life Memorial Service. We thank them for their commitment to Hospice of Dubuque and to this event.

National Volunteer Week

April 15 – 21

1670 JFK RoadDubuque, IA 52002

563.582.1220www.hospiceofdubuque.org

@hospiceofdubuque.org

Tree of Life Memorial Service

Spring 2012 Issue

Executive Director

BestFest 2012 Recap

Is it time for hospice care?

Recipes needed

Memorials

A day in the life of Dulci

Special thanks, Congratulations

Big Duffer Golf Outing

National Volunteer Week

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Congratulations to Hospice of Dubuque’s Patient Care Director, Bonnie Hancock, on being chosen as a 2012 winner of the American Red Cross Everyday Heroes of the Tri-States Award. After reviewing nominations submitted by tri-state area residents, winners were selected by an independent selection committee. The eight heroes were honored at a breakfast on Tuesday, March 20, at the Best Western in Dubuque.

The complete list of winners include: Adult Good Samaritan: Dave Brown, Animal Rescue: Mary Erchen, Fire and Rescue: Dan “Buck” Welp, Health Care Worker: Bonnie Hancock, Military: Jim Wagner, Professional Responder: Brad Hennen, Volunteer Community Impact: Gene Koschmeder and Galen Wanderscheid.

Everyday Heroes

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Medical DirectorsMark Hermann, MD, Co-Medical DirectorBrian Sullivan, MD, Co-Medical Director

Administrative StaffLavonne Noel, Executive DirectorJackie Brehm, Financial DirectorNancy Diehm, Psychosocial DirectorBonnie Hancock, Patient Care DirectorKaty Morrow, Nursing Services DirectorRenee Frith, Nursing Services Director

Officers, Board of DirectorsSusan Bushman, ARNP, PresidentBetty Takes, Vice PresidentFr. William Joensen, SecretaryBruce Rehmke, Treasurer

Members, Board of DirectorsTom Anderegg, PhDCindy BurdtCarole CarrollVicki DirksenJared Freiburger, DOTom Giese Amy GilliganBrad HeyingEileen LeMayDave LudovissyMark MandersAllen Meurer, MDRev. Kathleen MilliganChris Schiesl

Members, Foundation BoardDon FreymannRita HelleMike MartinBill MaiersBob MillerBruce RehmkeChuck Schrup IIIKen Snodgrass

CourageLavonne Noel, Executive DirectorCourage. This word often conjures images of heroism and acts of valor that are larger than life … the roar of courage. Through my work at Hospice of Dubuque, I am honored each day to witness the quiet voice of courage. The Hospice of Dubuque patients and families demonstrate the courage to: • live hopefully with terminal illness. • honor the promise to serve as a caregiver for a loved one. • find meaning and purpose after the death of someone significant in one’s life. I recently heard a speaker dare the audience to have the courage to be open to change. Think of a significant change in your life. It certainly takes courage to forge ahead, especially when the change is not one you were seeking. Imagine the significant change an individual, along with his or her loved ones, experiences when receiving a terminal prognosis. Hospice of Dubuque is here to help, providing needed support that is helpful when finding the courage to face adversity.

It takes courage to live hopefully with terminal illness. Many people fear that accepting services from hospice means giving up hope. With hospice care the focus shifts from hope for cure to other hopes and goals. The Hospice of Dubuque Team assists patients and families in identifying end-of-life goals, helping families determine how to spend precious remaining time. The Team works with patients and families to facilitate achievement of goals, which are as varied as the individuals and families themselves. Some may hope to be pain free. Others may desire to enjoy a ride along the river, see a grandchild born or enjoy a final Christmas celebration. Hospice of Dubuque encourages patients and families to live hopefully each day making the most of life.

It takes courage to honor the promise to serve as a caregiver for a loved one, but being courageous does not mean “going it alone.” With Hospice of Dubuque, caregivers receive much needed and appreciated support. With the involvement of the Hospice of Dubuque Team, families are able to meet their goal of a loved one’s comfortable, dignified death in familiar surroundings. All medical care is directed by the Hospice of Dubuque Medical Directors who work in tandem with each patient’s primary physician. Hospice nurses, who are on call 24-hours a day, seven-days a week, specialize in the aggressive management of pain and symptoms. Hospice aides and therapists also provide for the physical needs of hospice patients. With expertise in end-of-life issues, Hospice social workers and spiritual counselors provide emotional and spiritual support to patients, caregivers and family members. Specially-educated volunteers supplement hospice care by providing respite to family caregivers and companionship to patients.

It takes courage to find meaning and purpose after the death of someone significant in one’s life. Some days, it takes courage just to get out of bed. Webster’s Dictionary defines bereavement as “a sad or lonely state following the loss of a loved one by death.” We need not bear the weight of loss alone. Hospice of Dubuque offers a variety of bereavement programs to assist tri-state residents as they

grieve the loss of a loved one. This spring, it was my privilege to journey with a group of fellow bereaved individuals through my participation in one of Hospice of Dubuque’s Bereavement Support Groups. As I shared the intense loss I experienced following my mother’s death last year, these companions shared their profound losses as well. We found strength in the sharing and courage to move forward in our grief journeys. Hospice of Dubuque offers an opportunity for community members to experience bereavement support at the annual Tree of Life Memorial Service. That night we will come together to not only commemorate those we have loved and lost, but to also celebrate our quiet voices of courage.

I wish you strength and courage as you face the changes that you will encounter in life, and I assure you that, through its mission of providing compassionate care for the terminally ill and their loved ones, Hospice of Dubuque is always here to journey with you.

“Courage does not always roar.

Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the

end of the day saying,“I will try again tomorrow.”

- Mary Anne Radmacher

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BestFest 2012BestFest 2012 proved to be a very enjoyable time at the Grand River Center on March 22. A sold-out crowd enjoyed a large assortment of samples from the “best” businesses in attendance. Thank you to the community for attending and supporting BestFest and to the winning businesses that participated by supplying samples, coupons and/or raffle prizes.

Hospice of Dubuque is honored to be part of BestFest and to receive the proceeds generated through event tickets, raffle sales and corporate sponsorships. We appreciate the many volunteers that donate their time counting ballots and working the event. As always, it is a pleasure to work with the BestFest Committee: Carole Carroll, Hospice of Dubuque Board of Directors; Bill Beutin, Greg Birkett and Cathy Fisher, The Dubuque Advertiser; Steve Bruxvoort, Radio Dubuque; Jennifer Hanniford, Dupaco Community Credit Union; Shannon Singsank, OnMedia and Paul Gorrell, volunteer and friend.

Mark your calendars now for next year—March 21, 2013!

BestFest 2012 Gold Sponsors: Budweiser/7G Distributing, Coca-Cola, Diamond Jo Casino, Dupaco Community Credit Union, Grand River Center, John Deere Dubuque Works, OnMedia, Radio Dubuque and The Dubuque Advertiser

BestFest 2012 Silver Sponsors: A.Y. McDonald Foundation, Conlon Construction and The Finley Hospital

BestFest 2012 Bronze Sponsors: Biechler Electric, Enterprise Fleet Management, Mercy Medical Center, Midwest Business Products and Sedona Staffing Services

The family and friends of Tom and Carole Carroll enjoyed their BestFest experience by placing the winning bid for the Bud Bus package. This package included a ride to and from BestFest via the Bud Bus and 11 admittance tickets to the event. The Bud Bus was provided by Budweiser/7G Distributing. Additional prizes in the package were donated by Dupaco Community Credit Union, Coca-Cola, Grand Harbor Resort, Miracle Car Wash, The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mindframe Theatre. Thank you to Budweiser/7G Distributing, Tom Carroll and all who placed bids and supported this fun addition to BestFest!

Bud Bus

Spring Bereavement Groups are currently being held and more sessions will be available in the fall.

If you are interested in attending an upcoming Bereavement Support Group or would like more information, contact Jessica, Bereavement Coordinator, at 563.582.1220 or finkenauerj@hospiceofdubuque.org.

Bereavement support groups

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Many factors come together when choosing to initiate hospice care. For the patient and his or her family, the decision is multifaceted, reflecting previous life experiences, current quality of life and perceptions about hospice care. The decision for the patient’s physician can also be quite involved, especially when evaluating the declining health condition of older adults. A patient is eligible for the Medicare Hospice Benefit if he or she appears to have a prognosis of “less than six months if the disease runs its normal course.” To assist physicians in interpreting this regulatory language, the federal government has provided “local coverage determinations.” These guidelines provide specific signs and symptoms for identifying patients as appropriate for hospice services.

Weight loss is one of the first changes that many patients experience at the end of life. Often, long before end-of-life issues are suspected, weight loss becomes evident. Initially, people find protein less appealing and may decline eating red meat, chicken and fish. Near the end of life, cool, fruity foods may remain appealing. According to the Medicare guidelines, a 10% weight loss within six months is a qualifying factor for hospice care.

Infections are also a large part of health care problems at the end of life. Frequent urinary tract infections and upper respiratory infections can decrease quality of life for older adults. Urinary tract infections can cause confusion and agitation, while upper respiratory infections can cause shortness of breath and anxiety. The Medicare guidelines note that increased infections over a six month period may qualify a patient for hospice care.

Pain, nausea, shortness of breath or just “feeling terrible” may also suggest a terminal prognosis. These symptoms may lead a person to go the emergency room or the doctor’s office more and more frequently, without finding relief. These recurrent symptoms may begin to decrease quality of life and consume much of the person’s time. If the root cause cannot be determined and addressed, it may be time to initiate hospice care. Hospice of Dubuque can help manage these symptoms and assist this person in achieving comfort in spite of his or her ongoing illness.

At the end of life, many people find themselves less able to care for themselves. As ability to complete personal hygiene and activities of daily living decreases, so does quality of life. Energy decreases as well, with more napping and even dozing off during conversations. People withdraw from their former interests and seem less involved in living. Medicare states that if patients need help with two or more activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, or walking to the bathroom, they may be appropriate for hospice care.

Many patients and families worry that hospice care is all about dying. Hospice care is really about feeling good while you are living! Older adults who are nearing the end of life should be able to feel well enough to enjoy their life, finish their life’s work and put their “house” in order. Hospice of Dubuque is there to help them meet these end-of-life tasks and feel as well as possible while doing them.

Is it time to consider hospice care?Brian Sullivan, MD, Katy Morrow, BSN

Hospice of Dubuque will be participating in the Dubuque Memorial Day Parade, May 28. We would love to have our volunteers, supporters and families join us on this special day. The theme for this year’s parade is: Service Before Self. If you are interested in walking part, or all, of the parade route in honor of those we have served, please call Linda or Tiffany at 582.1220 or email communityrelations@hospiceofdubuque.org.

Hospice of Dubuque is proud to be a Level One Partner in the national We Honor Veterans Campaign.

Memorial Day parade

Hospice of Dubuque does not solicit donations over the telephone. If you do receive a call, claiming to be a Hospice of Dubuque

representative, please notify the authorities.

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In anticipation of Hospice of Dubuque’s 30th Anniversary in 2013, we are planning a “Comfort Foods” cookbook. If you have a special recipe that was passed on by a family member or good friend, we would love to include it in our cookbook. You may also include a brief description of why the recipe is special or simply designate the dish in honor or memory of someone. Photos are also accepted. Acknowledgment will be given for each recipe received.

Categories will include: Appetizers & Beverages, Soups & Salads,Vegetables & Side Dishes, Main Dishes, Breads & Rolls, Desserts, Cookies & Candy and This & That. To submit, neatly write or type the recipe with all correct ingredients, instructions and your contact information. Recipes will not be returned. There is a limit of two recipes per person. Mail to Hospice of Dubuque, 1670 JFK Road, Dubuque, IA 52002, or email communityrelations@hospiceofdubuque.org. We look forward to hearing from you as we commemorate our loved ones and stir up memories of special recipes and traditions.

Recipes needed!

Recipes will be accepted throughout 2012, or until we receive an adequate amount.

Please be sure all recipes can be easily read, all ingredients and instructions are listed and your contact information is included.

Molasses “CraCkle Top” Cookies

ingredienTsMix together and set aside: 3/4 cup shortening (prefer butter flavor Crisco) 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 egg 1/4 cup molasses 1 T. milkMix together the following dry ingredients: 2 1/4 cup flour 2 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. salt 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. ginger

direCTionsStir the dry ingredients into the first mixture. Chill dough for at least several hours; overnight is best. Roll chilled dough into balls with approximately a one inch diameter. Dip tops of balls in sugar and place sugared side up on baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle with a bit more sugar. Bake until set, but not hard—approximately 10-12 minutes in a 350o preheated oven. Leave baked cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes until set enough to move by spatula. Place cookies on sheets of aluminum foil on the kitchen counter to finish cooling. Makes approximately 2 dozen cookies.

Recipe from Lavonne Noel, in memory of her mother Mary Reiter. When my mom made these cookies for her grandkids, they called the cookies

“crackle tops” because the tops truly look cracked after baking.

“When the Hospice of Dubuque “team” walked into my mom’s house for the first time, I felt like a ton of weight was lifted off of my shoulders! They were truly angels and I wish we would have had more time with them and their great support before Mom passed.”

- Lori K

Remembering all our mothers on Mother’s Day, May 11

“When it became apparent that Mom wasn’t going to get better, I asked for Hospice of Dubuque. We were very pleased with the care Dad received 4 ½ years ago and I wanted Mom to receive the same quality of care and be able to experience the same gentle death.

Thank you so much for helping us to help her die with dignity and surrounded by love from near and far.”-Jan H

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HonorariumsTom BorchertDr. Eugene ConklinDeVona DavissonRandy & Richard Decker of Decker Precision MachineryDonald L. HarrisBabe Lahey—90th BirthdayMelvin Lisk Judy McCarville—70th BirthdayRonald L. MetzClete MeyerJoseph SpurlingFrederick T. UtheDave WertzbergerShirley White

MemorialsJeanne AdamsCy ArensdorfDonald AvenariusDella Rose BanworthLouis BarrettBrad BassFlorabelle BassMarshall BassGenevieve BasslerWilliam BauchJohn BeatriceCletus BeckKay E. BeinbornTheresa A. BensonPaul BergElmars BerzinsJoseph BitterMark BlumSharon BodellGeorge BogarthEldon A. BonifasAnne BrantLorraine BrauerEvelyn “Evie” BrechtGrace BrimeyerHerbert BrimeyerDorothy BrownJulie BrownRhinelda BruneMary & Verle BryantDon BurchettJack & Pat BurgmeierDuWayne P. BurnsGretchen BussanNancy CahillHoward CampbellValerie CarewDonald R. CasteelAnna Mae A. ChapmanLucie CheneryTom ChristBetty ClemenMilton CloughOpal ConlanMable ConnollyEarl Corbett

Dorothy CrowleyMary A. CurfmanPhyllis CushmanHelen DarbyMary DeckerEdward V. Degnan, DDSAdrian & Sylvia DeLireMark DeMuthGerald DenlingerHelen DeppeMonica DigmanBecky DolphinDick DolterRoland DomeyerJohn DonahueBea DoughertyPaul DurhamSandra DwyerIrene M. EdgarNorma Dell EdlemanBob EichackerElaine EinsweilerHarry “Bud” EldridgeGary ElginDominic & LouMae EnglishJudy English Marvin EnrightScott EnsignFlorence FayThomas L. FeipelEnid FlanaganRosalia FleegeWalter FoeckingPatricia “Pat” ForbesKaren “Kim” ForemanMadonna J. FrainClara FrankLeon FreezeKatharine W. FriedmanRobert W. GehrigDuane GerdesBill GieseMarvin GlickDavid GonnerWillard & Isabel GraceDarlene Wiegand GrafGranny BertEthel GreggDeanne GriceCheryl GruberGary A. GukeisenFrances HadleyPeggy HallahanDon & Madeline HanleyJames HarrisonPeggy HarrisonBob HartmanWilliam Hartmann, Sr.Joyce HaudenschieldJoyce HaunRalph HaxmeierLeona HayertzRichard “Dick” HayesJoseph HefelMarion HefelKen Heiderscheit

Kathryn HeimMerlin E. HelbingMatt HelleLyle F. HenryBob HerbstFred HermanWalter HeroldJerry HesselingCharles G. HinkelFlorence HirdCarol HoegerDale D. HoferRosemary HowellBarbara HughesRose HughesGladyce HummelJoAnn HunstadBill HutchinsMarge HrynkowDave JaegerHelen D. JannsenWayne JochumCarol JohnsonPolly JohnsonRandy JohnstonMarcella JonesLoras “Louie” KalbJames Kane, Jr.Margie KedleyHarold KeilKen KelchenHelen KelseyIrene KennedyIola Mae KerperWilliam H. “Bill” KlauerDonald E. KleinGerald A. KluesnerRaymond KoenigJames KolkerJanice KrausChristina KremerFrances “Fran” KressJoseph KresseHoward KuhlBeverly LahrLois LameyJeanette LanserBecki LeClereTony LeickRaymond LeitnerNancy LemireDennis LichtElsie L. LightcapNorman LinkBetty & John LippertEvelyn LoneyBarb LudwigMalinda MaiersRonald N. MaiersDelores ManningRay ManternachCharles MartellVern & Vi MarkusBertha McAleecePatricia “Pat” McAteeElinor McDevitt

Luella McFaddenPatricia Mary McLaughlinDoris MerrimanDanny MeseroleLouis G. MetzAnn Lee MeyerMelvin E. MeyerMerlin MeyerRichard MeyerRosita MeyerRobert MieheEd & Rose MillerHelen MillerJim Miller’s sister, NancyShirley A. MillerMelba MoellerWilford & Adele MohrMary MooreBlanche MostaertMark MulvehillJohn C. NiggFlorence NoelLorna O’RourkeMerle O’RourkeRalph OberbroecklingEthel OhmertDon OlsenCraig OlsonJane OsterhausLester OsterhausJune A. OwensWilliam OwensRetha PalmerTony PantoPatricia PapenthienRobert PeryonCarol PfohlBob PierceRichard C. PikeWilma PinkTom PitzLeo PottebaumArthur PotterFrancis “Dutch” PowersRobert PulsCarol RauschDonna ReittingerLeonard “Lenny” RenkCharles RichardsonRosemary RichmanLou RiedlLawrence RileyAlberta RolingPaul RundeCharlotte RussowWilma SampleMary Ann SchuellerRobert SchusterAnne ShannonElizabeth J. ShirdEldon SieverdingRichard SimonEarl SmithLloyd F. SmithDenise SpahnDale Spiegler

Tom SpraugeLaura K. StaffordConnie StewartJohn SweeneyAnn ThompsonBernadette ToonenMargaret TranelRobert Trilk, Sr.Ronald J. TurnerDick TurnmeyerVelma Van OstrandTony VanNattaJoan VogtMary VolkLucille VonderhaarHank WaechterPatsy K. WalkerBerneice WeberDick WeberRosella “Sally” WegmannDorothy WeinschenkDale B. Wiegand Beverly WhiteWayne WienekeLeroy WilhelmPatricia J. WillettLeRoy F. WubbenTimothy ZilligHazel Zimmer

Groups or BusinessesDonations and In-Kind GiftsCommon Cents ResaleDonut BoyDubuque Montessori SchoolDupaco Community Credit UnionFinley Hartig HomecareFloor Show Furniture & FlooringGiese Sheet Metal Co., Inc. Kim’s KreationsNew Melleray AbbeyTri-State ShredPhysicians of Dubuque Internal Medicine, P.C.Rhomberg’s Fur & Leather GallerySedgwick CMS Activity CommitteeSisters of the VisitationSt Peter Lutheran ChurchSt Raphael CathedralSunset Park Place

Matching gifts or employee giving IBM Employee Charitable Contribution CampaignMcGraw-Hill Companies Employee Giving CampaignThrivent Financial for Lutherans Employee Gift ProgramTruist, Deloitte United Way

Spring 2012 Honorariums/MemorialsWe gratefully acknowledge these monetary donations as well as donations made to our loan closet, received between January 3 through April 1. If a name is inaccurate or missing, please call Community Relations at 563.582.1220.

Hospice of Dubuque is committed to respecting your privacy. You have received the Hospice of Dubuque newsletter because you or a family member have used Hospice of Dubuque services, made a donation or volunteered for a fundraiser. We will never disclose our mailing list to anyone. If you prefer to have your name removed or choose to receive the newsletter by email, please contact us at 563.582.1220 or community_relations@hospiceofdubuque.org.

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As a middle-aged lap dog, I thought I was quite content spending my days eating, sleeping and caring for my somewhat needy owner, Brenda. This “life of Riley” was to end for me the day Brenda started working as a Hospice of Dubuque RN. One day when she returned home from work, I could tell she had something on her mind. I quietly waited for her to let me in on her secret. She asked me if I’d ever considered coming out of retirement and becoming a volunteer for hospice! After recovering from my initial surprise and reticence, the proposition began to appeal to me more and more. After all, I was really a natural listener and when called upon to snuggle and sleep all day, my performance was consistently stellar. But this story is not about me, it’s about Margaret, a patient who quickly became a dear friend of mine. Brenda introduced me to this wonderful elderly patient and it was a mutual admiration right from the start. The problem was that Margaret was unhappy about how her life was proceeding. She did not like needing nursing home care, losing her independence and, understandably, not being able to be cared for by a pet of her own. That’s where I came in.

Yes, we hit it off immediately, two peas in a pod. My job, it seemed, was to snuggle in close by her side when she’d make room for me on her recliner. From then on, I gladly accepted the praise Margaret generously heaped on me. She seemed especially impressed with my superior dachshund looks and exceptionally sweet personality. Willingly I submitted to ear scratches and tummy rubs. Yup, this was the life! At times I would shudder when I thought of how I could have been born a retriever and forced to pull dead birds out of icy lakes, or worse yet, a poodle who is subjected to humiliating hairdos. Yet, I knew when I had it good and would sigh contently as I snuggled in closer to my new buddy Margaret’s side.

One day, Brenda and I were busy figuring out our weekly work schedule. She asked me if I could spare a couple of hours to visit Margaret. A quick glance at my appointment calendar confirmed a rare vacancy and I wrote her in on the spot. When Wednesday arrived, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this visit was important, even a bit urgent. I couldn’t put my paw (or in human terms, finger) on it, but I was glad today was our visit day. Imagine my panic when Brenda started thinking we should postpone my visit until after my grooming appointment on Thursday! “Gee whiz,” I thought, “I’m not that stinky!” Luckily I was able to convey my thoughts effectively and convince Brenda to keep our original date.

When we arrived at the nursing home, my feeling of urgency accelerated and I had my leash clipped on (humiliating device that it is) briskly trotting through the parking lot and in the front doors. After a cursory sniff of recognition to Matti, the resident nursing home dog (now there’s a big job!) I pulled Brenda to the staircase. As we raced up the three flights of stairs, I was becoming increasingly convinced that my place today was truly at Margaret’s side. So, at the risk of appearing rude, I quickly bypassed all the residents and nurses who were, as usual, remarking on my darling appearance and cute, little, short legs. “Really? Must they always bring the short leg issue up?”

Soon I was in Margaret’s room greeted with a big smile and an invitation to join her on her chair. She was quieter that day and somehow I knew I was right where I was supposed to be—snuggling by her side. Brenda busied herself with whatever it is she does during these visits and soon told me to say my good-byes. I motioned her over and whispered a request to stay just a bit longer. I told her I just wasn’t ready to leave Margaret’s side. Fortunately, Brenda had learned to respect my keen intuition and settled into a longer visit, chatting with the family members who were there. She knew I had all of Margaret’s needs covered.

The time arrived to say goodbye. After licking (that’s kissing in human terms) Margaret’s cheek and hand, we slowly walked away. I turned one last time and saw my dear friend’s kind eyes and sweet face thanking me for the visit.

That was the last we saw Margaret. She died seven hours later. Brenda and I like to think of her in heaven enjoying heavenly canine companionship to her heart’s content. We miss her but are glad we got to know her. What a blessing she was to us!

A day in the life of Dulci, the canine volunteerDulci Peterson Pieper, HODCV (Hospice of Dubuque Canine Volunteer)

Hospice of Dubuque Team Nurse, Brenda Peterson Pieper, participated in the St. Baldrick’s Fundraiser on March 17 in Dewitt, Iowa. Brenda collected pledges and shaved her head to raise money for childhood cancer research. Brenda reports she was never nervous about her decision and her coworkers think she looks great! Thanks Brenda.

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Congratulations to ... Hospice of Dubuque Staff ...Jackie Brehm, and husband Pete, on the birth of their second son, Ryan Thomas, January 26. Ryan joins brother, Matt, in the Brehm home.

Jen Rupp, RN, on receiving her Illinois nursing license.

Angela Nauman, and husband Dave, on the birth of their second son, Vincent Thomas, March 29. Vincent joins brother, Dominic, in the Nauman home.

Hospice of Dubuque bid farewell to Hospice Aide, Jayne Schonoff. Jayne began her role with the Hospice of Dubuque Team in October 2008. We thank her for the years of service she provided

to many of our patients and families. Good luck Jayne!

Sympathy to ... Hospice of Dubuque Staff ...Kay Herman, on the death of her husband, Fred, January 10.

Kathy Pitz, on the death of her brother-in-law, Tom Pitz, December 28.

Dr. Brian Sullivan, on the death of his step father-in-law, Bruce “Raymond” Breneman, March 9.

Mary Hoelscher, on the death of her father, Joseph Kresse, March 20.

Debbie Horch, on the death of her father, Milton Clough, March 21.

Jim Miller, on the death of his sister, Nancy, March 27.

Hospice of Dubuque Board Members ...Mark Manders, on the death of his mother-in-law, Joyce Haun, February 21.

The family of Margie Kedley, who served from 1987–1992 on the Hospice of Dubuque Board of Directors. Margie died February 29.

Hospice of Dubuque Volunteers ...Kathleen Weber and family, on the death of her husband, Richard “Dick” Weber, February 22.

Sam Schmelzer, on the death of his mother-in-law, Jeanette Tauke, April 3.

The staff of Hospice of Dubuque were saddened by the death of former volunteer, Pat Forbes, January 28. We extend our sincere sympathy to her family and friends and are thankful for the

time she shared with others as a Hospice of Dubuque volunteer.

Special thanks to ...Christine Schiesl, for the $500 donation in recognition of volunteer services made possible by the McGraw Hill Companies Employee Grant Program.

Volunteers who joined us in counting BestFest votes and assisted on the Alzheimer’s books project.

Gaa Holiman, for the $50 donation toward an ocean drum, in memory of Gladyce Hummel. The drum will be used in the music therapy program.

Sue Bushman, for her donation of books in memory of her mother, Monica Digman.

Doris Gorius and the Pink Ribbon Open, for the donation to purchase risers, keyboards and mouse pads for laptops, extra-long twin sheets for hospital beds and soaker pads.

Melissa Radtke, for the donation of the quilt.

Tammy Trebian, pictured below, from Common Cents Resale, for her latest donation of $632 from the sale of donated items.

Lisa Portz, and her team of Lori Slattery and Sue Ashe, and Julie Aird, and her team of Mary Ann Nicks and Mary Rossman, for two $1,000 donations made possible by the McGraw-Hill Companies Employee Volunteer Grant Program. Picture to the right.

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... and employees

Dave Ludovissy is Founder and President of Ludovissy & Associates Insurance Agency. Dave manages insurance operations for their offices in Dubuque, East Dubuque and Bellevue. Along with serving on various insurance company advisory boards, Dave is Past President of the Dubuque Independent Insurance Agents and past board member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish Council. Dave and his wife, Ann, have three children and three grandchildren.

Hospice of Dubuque welcomes board members ...

Tom Anderegg is a graduate of Loras College. He received his PhD in Clinical Psychology from DePaul University in Chicago. Tom has been a psychologist in Dubuque since 1977. He worked for 13 years at the Gannon Center for Community Mental Health and since 1990 has been in private practice. Tom and his wife, Jan, have a daughter, Abby, and a son, Ben. He enjoys biking, golfing and camping with his wife.

Mark Manders is a Dubuque native and the IT Manager for Theisen Supply Inc. Mark has been working in the Information Technology field for over 20 years. Mark’s past community involvement include scout master, volunteer fire fighter, foster/adoptive parent and soccer coach. Mark has been happily married to Julie for 25 years and they are the parents of three daughters and one son.

Rev. Dianne Grace joined Hospice of Dubuque in February as a Spiritual Care Counselor. Dianne has lived in Dubuque all her life, received her Master of Divinity degree from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary and is an ordained minister of the United Church of Christ. She currently lives in Sherrill with her husband of 15 years, Rick, and their two children, Jake, age 14, and Lizzie, age 12. Dianne enjoys spending time with family, attending her children’s various music performances and basking in the glory of the outdoors.

Hospice of Dubuque is once again grateful to be the recipient of a portion of the proceeds from a local event known as the Pink Ribbon Open. This event, begun in 1999, is organized by Doris Gorius, owner of Cookin’ Something Up, a gourmet kitchen shop located next to the Hospice of Dubuque office. Since its inception, this golf tournament has raised more than $100,000 with 100% of the proceeds being donated to area businesses and health care facilities that provide care to individuals with cancer.

Though it began as a tribute to the organizer’s mother, Della Rose Banwarth, who died of cancer in 1978 at the age of 46, it has since become a way to honor all area residents who both survive and succumb to cancer. The event has grown each year and now includes 350 women golfers, a celebratory dinner and program, followed by both a live and a silent auction. The efforts made by Doris, her very small committee and the generosity of many Dubuque area businesses and private individuals have made an incredible difference in the care and support now available to local cancer patients.

Funds have been used for medical equipment in local physician offices and hospitals, televisions in cancer treatment rooms, comfort foods during chemotherapy infusions, nutritional supplements, shampoos, wigs and other hair pieces. Hospice of Dubuque will be using the most recent contribution to provide laptop accessories for clinicians, making health care information easily accessible to them, as well as a supply of linens to be loaned to hospice families whenever a hospital bed is needed in a patient’s home.

Over the years, the proceeds from this event have touched far more families than the organizers ever thought possible. This is a local, independent event of which everyone involved can be very proud. Hospice of Dubuque feels very blessed to be just one of the many beneficiaries of this wonderful effort.

Pink Ribbon OpenNancy Diehm, Psychosocial Director

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The Big Duffer Hospice Golf OutingPlans are underway for the Hospice of Dubuque Big Duffer Golf Outing. The 4-person best shot tournament will be held July 28 at Lacoma Golf Course. This outing is an opportunity for families and individuals to play golf in honor or memory of their own “Big Duffer.” The dinner will include a grill-your-own steak. Please complete the information below to reserve your tee time.

Registering for 18 holes of golf with dinner ($70) 9 holes of golf with dinner ($55) Dinner only ($25)

Group Leader: Contact number: Email address: Playing in memory or honor of:Golfer #2 Contact number: Email address: Playing in memory or honor of:Golfer #3 Contact number: Email address: Playing in memory or honor of:Golfer #4 Contact number: Email address: Playing in memory or honor of:

Make checks payable to Big Duffer Hospice Golf Outing. Payment may be mailed directly to the Hospice of Dubuque office at 1670 JFK Road, Dubuque, IA 52002.

Organizers are also accepting business and family hole sponsorships, in memory of a loved one, for $100. Sponsorship includes a personalized sign displayed on each tee box. You may also provide a photograph, logo or personal momento to be displayed at the sponsored hole. They are also in need of donations for raffle prizes and silent auctions! All proceeds go to Hospice of Dubuque.

For questions or information contact: Jim Miller at 563.557.9766, Pat O’Neill at 563.583.4668, or visit http://thebigduffer.com and our summer newsletter for updates and details.

Hole sponsorships available

Name of person(s) to be honored or remembered:

Hole sponsored by:Address:City, State, Zip code:Phone:Email:

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When my wife Brenda and I inquired into the Hospice of Dubuque program, we had no idea of the many benefits hospice included. The suggestion of a volunteer to simply visit seemed like an excellent way to help my father. Dave, our Hospice of Dubuque Volunteer, has been a true godsend. On his first visit, his pickup made a side trip into Culvers where Dave purchased ice cream treats for my father and himself. That practice has happened several times. When Dave visits, he brings up topics from yesteryear so that dad can talk to someone about happenings during the pre-WWII years. They sit and converse and then find time to play cards. The irony of the card playing is that Dad had to teach Dave how to play double solitaire. His weekly visits are such a welcome diversion. Dad may not have any memory of the last visit, but I know he truly enjoys the time spent with Dave and these visits enrich my father’s life. Dave is very deeply appreciated.

2012 Volunteer In-Service CalendarDebbie Horch, Volunteer Coordinator

April 26, 2012“Managing Stress through Stretching”Judi Carr, RNMaster Yoga Instructor6pm Theisen Education Center

May 22, 2012“Tree of Life”Annual Tree of Life Service, in Washington Park at 7:30 pm. All volunteers are invited and encouraged to attend.

National Volunteer Week is April 15–21, 2012. Hospice of Dubuque is blessed to have a very dedicated group of people who agree to visit terminally ill patients, creating caring and enjoyable experiences for patients and families. I am constantly inspired at the wonderful ideas that our volunteers offer their newfound friends. I equally enjoy the stories and life lessons shared. Hospice of Dubuque families put great trust in strangers to watch their loved ones in their absence. We are proud to send these volunteers out into the community, knowing wherever we send them, the family will benefit from their generosity and compassion. Often times a family will tell us how much joy the volunteer has brought to dad by taking him for a ride or that the volunteer brought mom flowers. These may be small gestures, but they bring large amounts of happiness to patients.

Whether you provide patient care, sit on our Board of Directors, knit and crochet lap robes for our patients, give rides to family members, deliver physician orders or work at our events, we would like to take this opportunity to recognize all of our volunteers. Thank you for the many things that you offer our organization, our patients and their families. We could not continue to fulfill our mission without you. We are honored that you choose to be a Hospice of Dubuque volunteer.

Thank youDebbie Horch, Volunteer Coordinator

National Volunteer WeekApril 15-21

Dad, Dave and double solitaireTerry and Brenda Coates

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Nonprofit OrgUS Postage

PAIDDubuque, IowaPermit No. 477

RETURN SERVICEREQUESTED

A quarterly publication of Hospice of Dubuque Volume 25, Number 1Spring 2012

Our MissionProviding compassionate care for the terminally ill and their loved ones

563.582.1220www.hospiceofdubuque.org

1670 JFK Road, Dubuque IA, 52002

Mark Your Calendar!

May 22 - Tree of Life

May 28 - Dubuque Memorial Day Parade

July 28 - “Big Duffer” Hospice Golf Outing

August 6 - Bill’s Tap Fish Fry

August 18 - Tour de Dubuque

August 25 - Irish Hooley

For more information on events please call 563.582.1220 or visit www.hospiceofdubuque.org

“We were very pleased with

the care that Hospice of

Dubuque provided. Everyone

was very professional—yet

caring and supportive. They

carefully explained their

plan to keep my husband as

pain free as he wanted and

still gave him the opportunity

to do what he wanted.”

- Barbara B