Update from the Hospice & Healing Committee

For those of you who are unfamiliar with, unaware of or have forgotten about Hospice, here is a brief reminder of who we are and what we do. Our Hospice group began approximately twenty years ago in order to assist our congregants with the pressing problems of a terminal illness. We are the same seven dedicated women, who have been professionally trained in hospice work, have attended many seminars and who have been together for all these years.

Our goals are many . . . to supply informational books to young children, to help with medical supplies, if needed, to relieve the caregiver for a few hours of respite, to drive to a doctor appointment, to be a careful listener for the patient. We have also been connected for many years to Taylor Hospice. We have given money for their library, have provided help in Hospice House, and have visited patients in their own homes and in nursing homes.

We have sponsored several programs at Temple Sholom over the years, most notably Dr. Daniel Gottlieb, who has spoken on different subjects. We hope to continue to have interesting and informative programs in the future.

The wonderful women who are a vital part of our committee are: Amy Berkowitz, Pam Haas, Connie Levin, Elaine Smith, Ellen Goldblatt, and Barbara Shay-Martin.

Lastly, I hope that if a specific need arises, you will contact Amy Berkowitz, our clergy, or me so that we may give aid and comfort to our congregational family. We cannot be of assistance if we are unaware of the problem.

Please do not hesitate to call me; I am always available to speak with you. From all of us, I hope you have a healthy, happy and restful summer.

Barbara Smilk, Chairperson