The helping hands of Hospice, invaluable to the community
Story by Dana Davis (Contact)



Holton — Velma and Ken Kruse are grateful for Jackson County Friends of Hospice.

"They come and they bathe him because it got too much for me to handle by myself," says Mrs. Kruse.

The organization is a blend of volunteers and nurses who serve the terminally ill. Hospice staff are on call 24 hours a day.

"I've had to call a couple times when his blood pressure's dropped and I wasn't sure. And they're here in a matter of minutes," says Mrs. Kruse

Mr. Kruse has ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease and speaks with a voice computer. He has a sense of humor about it all.

"Saves a lot of money," says Mr. Kruse.

Edrie Thompson is one of 90 volunteers. She has volunteered with Hospice since it began nearly 20 years ago.

"I love what I do. Before we had a hospice here, my father-in-law had cancer. We had no support, no help anywhere. And he wanted to stay at home in the worst way. Hated hospitals. He's the reason why I volunteer, as a tribute to him. Just to help others that are in the same position," says Edrie.

Edrie says being a hospice volunteer has enriched her life, developing friends and close bonds. Though it can be bittersweet.

"You know that you're going to lose some of the close friends that you have. But then in your own mind, you know how much you've helped that family," said Edrie.

Mrs. Kruse says Jackson County Friends of Hospice is invaluable to the community.

"Comforting. And they're there to comfort you also. Support. You never know when something is going to strike and you have to use 'em and they are there," said Mrs. Kruse.

Mr. Kruse agrees.

"Sure glad they are there," says Mr. Kruse.



http://www.49abcnews.com/news/2007/j...ble_community/