Our Clients Say It Best

Comfort Food
Joe Menser

Apr, 2016

Sometimes the simplest things can bring us the most comfort and joy: a warm embrace from an old friend, picking your favorite flowers from the garden, a walk through the park on a beautiful day, or the taste of your favorite meal. For Hospice at Home clients many of the simple activities they once enjoyed freely are now much more difficult to pursue. Due to changes in their physical ability, many residents are no longer able to do things that once brought them joy without a great deal of aid. Thanks to the wonderful support from the community, Hospice at Home staff are often able to make these simple moments possible again for our clients.

Joe Menser, a client at the Merlin and Carolyn Hanson Hospice Center, recently made a request that was quickly answered by the community. Joe was visiting with his massage therapist Kris, from Hospice at Home, when he started to reminisce about his past. During their talk, Joe discussed the things that he missed most, and at the top of that list were his two favorite meals from Cracker Barrel: catfish and chicken and dumplings. Joe could not remember the last time he had enjoyed these items. Kris thought that Joe was a perfect candidate for the Life is Precious Program. This program is designed to help our clients and families create memorable moments as they deal with life-limiting illnesses. Kris contacted the volunteer coordinator who reached out to Cracker Barrel in Stevensville. Cracker Barrel kindly responded to the request by preparing and donating both of Joe’s favorite meals. Kris picked up the food and brought it to Joe who was very grateful and savored every bite. The ability to enjoy his favorite meals brought joy and comfort to Joe while providing nourishment for his body and spirit.

Hospice at Home is so thankful for the continued community support that makes such a difference to our clients.