Grants Officer Perspective, by Melanie Maraugha
Having previously been on the “frontlines” of social work, I can appreciate the time and commitment it takes to provide supportive care to meet the non-physical needs of patients and caregivers. Although my experience was not hospice-related, I remember endless hours of documentation, interviewing, educating and discharge planning. In addition, I developed care plans, assessed safety and spent time gaining an understanding of my patients’ diverse beliefs and faith traditions. My main purpose was to build relationships, not only with my patients, but with the communities in which they lived, and then act as a liaison between the two.
My job title, “Case Manager,” really didn’t seem to fit. A better title would have been “Seeker.” Social workers and bereavement coordinators spend much of their time seeking. They seek out ways to improve their patients’ quality of life, ensuring that they live and die in an environment bathed in dignity and comfort. In order to accomplish this, they have to seek out resources to provide shelter, food, clothing, financial assistance, medical assistance and other resources in an attempt to meet the needs of their patients and their caregivers. In today’s economic climate, resources are scarce, and community service providers are overwhelmed and understaffed.
The Heartland Hospice Memorial Fund is a refreshing oasis for the seekers. Family and friends of Heartland Hospice patients continually demonstrate their appreciation for the excellent care their loved ones received by donating to the fund. Their donations, in turn, provide refreshment in the form of financial assistance for those who are coping with life-limiting illness, death, and the process of grief and bereavement and to support community-based services and education related to hospice care.
So many terminally ill individuals and their families are experiencing financial distress and unable to be self-sufficient due to the circumstances of their terminal diagnosis. Thanks to the family and friends of Heartland Hospice patients, there are funds available to meet the needs of these families. I am honored to serve this compassionate and committed group of “seekers” and so appreciative of the “givers” who continue to provide the funds of “refreshment.”
