Approaching the holidays in the season of grief is particularly difficult and unsettling. Memories of years gone by, traditions and expectations all weigh heavily on our hearts and minds as we consider what we might celebrate this holiday season. Feelings of loneliness, depression, burden and resentment may become more pronounced as they stand in stark [...]
When a patient is referred to Catholic Community Hospice, it is for end-of-life care. However, that person’s care actually helps sustain life for local children, adults and seniors in need. Catholic Community Hospice is a ministry of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. Unlike other hospice programs, funds generated help support 24 programs and services [...]
Jane Godar Kreiter, a member of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, has made more than 200 lap afghans for hospice patients. LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY by Carol Cowdrey Special to The Leaven OVERLAND PARK — Jane Godar Kreiter, a parishioner at Church of the Ascension here, learned to knit when [...]
Although it can be hard to accept, death is a stage in all of our lives. Through the Angel Vigil program, Catholic Community Hospice provides around-the-clock bedside volunteers, so that patients and their family members don't have to go through these final hours alone. Catholic Community Hospice Volunteer Director, Bonnie Krause, provides training to those [...]
In honor of National Older American's Month, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has joined with Capitol City Community Church of God to sponsor a Senior Community Wellness Fair, Saturday, May 5th. There were representatives from a variety of different businesses and organization that all provide services to older Americans. Nutritious recipes were prepared by K-State [...]
Each month, nearly carry out the mission of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. Our volunteers generously give both their time and talent in a variety of ways---from hosting food drives to sorting donations at TurnStyles to helping with English language classes or providing companionship and support as a Friendly Visitor or Catholic Community Hospice volunteer. [...]
Caroling at the homes of our Catholic Community Hospice patients has become an annual tradition this time of year. The outing brings a little Christmas cheer to our patients, and lots of joy to our Catholic Community Hospice staff and volunteers. Find out more about Catholic Community Hospice: http://catholiccommunityhospice.com/
Deacon Jim Lavin offers comfort to hospice patients at Villa St. Francis in Olathe. Deacon Lavin serves as a chaplain with Catholic Community Hospice, a ministry of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. Despite the nature of his work, he finds his ministry very rewarding. LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER ‘A calling wrapped [...]
Marty Letourneau always had an interest in doing pet therapy work, so when Stanton came into her life, it was the perfect opportunity to begin this journey. Stanton is a 10-year-old black Lab/Golden cross with a very calm and comforting demeanor. Together, they have been doing pet therapy and R.E.A.D. (Reading Education Assistance Dog) visits [...]
This Catholic Community Hospice event series is presented by Dr. Catherine Powers, Medical Director; Donda McLaughlin, LMSW, LCSW, Parish Liaison; and Brent Doster, LMSW, Bereavement Coordinator. Have you ever thought about end-of-life care for you, a spouse or a parent? What would it look like? Would your faith play a role? It’s scary to learn that [...]