By Angela Ross, Content Specialist
Published: November 23, 2021
November is National Hospice & Palliative Care Month and a time to join with other hospices, throughout the country, to educate our community about the many options available for people dealing with serious or life-limiting illness. The expert care provided by Kansas City Hospice (KCH) within palliative care, advanced illness support, hospice, and grief support lets each person choose how they wish to live and supports individuals and families along the way.
This year we also celebrate the 15-year anniversary of Kansas City Hospice House (KCHH) and recognize our staff’s dedication to quality care. For 15 years, with the help of our caring and professional staff and volunteers, we have become the region’s leader in end-of-life care.
Visitors find peace, comfort and quality care through the doors of Kansas City Hospice House.
KCH staff member reports, “I just got off the phone with a patient’s son and he could not stop singing praises for the KCHH facility & staff. He said that three steps into the building he felt an almost immediate sense of peace and calm. He knew they were in the right place. He thanks KCHH profusely for the care given not only to his mother, but to the family as well.”
The birth of Kansas City Hospice House 15 years ago was no accident. Strategically planned with a specific purpose in mind, Kansas City’s first locally-owned, free-standing inpatient hospice facility designed to provide a caring and supportive environment for patients at the end of their life, and their families.
As we celebrate the 15-year anniversary of KCHH we also celebrate the beautiful life of Frances (Fran) Martinsen, a dedicated KCH Foundation Board member of 20 years, who developed the idea to create a stand-alone house for hospice patients along with Elaine McIntosh, past President and CEO of Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care. Fran and Elaine worked tirelessly side-by-side, with committed volunteers, to advocate and fundraise for the development of a hospice house. In April 2006, Kansas City Hospice House opened its doors.
Volunteers and staff break ground on the future site of Kansas City Hospice House.
Joel Carmer, Kansas City Hospice Grief Support Specialist and Chaplain, reflects back to the facility’s development, “Only ten nurses were hired who we thought could provide the type of care we were looking for and what the patients and their families deserved. Over the years, more nurses and volunteers have come to share their lives with those in need of their care and 15 years later, the walls have more stories to share and staff continue to be in the ready for those patients and family who need them.” This care and planning is further reflected in the principles and expertise of the staff and volunteers who have dedicated their careers to caring for patients at KCHH.
The development of Kansas City Hospice House has provided a positive impact on our community and currently offers 32 large, private rooms in a beautiful and homelike facility that cares for patients whose needs are too complex to be met at home. This comfortable home away from home provides a high level of medical care and support for the whole family.
About 10 years ago my brother only got to have about 45 minutes care but it was the most loving 45 minutes I could’ve asked for. Thank you so much KC hospice house. Rather it be a short time or longer time with them, you will be glad that you chose yes loving place for your loved ones’ final hours. ❤️
Phyllis, thank you for trusting us with your brother’s care, and for welcoming us into your family during such an important and sacred time.