Hospice of the Panhandle celebrates 45 years of compassionate care and community support

The Berkeley County Commission convened on January 30, 2025, to discuss various community matters, with a significant focus on the services provided by Hospice of the Panhandle. Maria Laurenson, the development director of the organization, presented an impact report highlighting the hospice's contributions over the past year.

Laurenson began by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to speak and shared insights from her 17 years with Hospice of the Panhandle. She emphasized the importance of hospice care, noting that it is often misunderstood as only being for the final days of life. Instead, she advocated for earlier engagement with hospice services, which can enhance the quality of life for patients and their families.

The report detailed that Hospice of the Panhandle served over 1,300 patients last year, primarily in Berkeley County, and has been a vital part of the community for 45 years. Laurenson highlighted the organization’s growth from an all-volunteer group to a robust service provider with 160 volunteers. She also mentioned the inpatient facility that has cared for over 5,000 patients in its ten years of operation, providing essential care for those whose symptoms cannot be managed at home.

Additionally, Laurenson introduced the Panhandle Palliative Services program, which focuses on comfort care for patients with multiple health issues who are not yet ready for hospice. This initiative aims to encourage earlier calls to hospice services, thereby improving patient outcomes.

The meeting also touched on the organization’s fundraising efforts, including the "Light Up A Life" project, which honors patients and families through a luminary display. Laurenson noted that 25% of their patient population consists of veterans, and the hospice collaborates with the VA Center to provide specialized services for this group.

In closing, Laurenson invited questions from the commission members, who expressed appreciation for the hospice's facilities and the critical support it offers to families during difficult times. The meeting underscored the essential role of Hospice of the Panhandle in the community and the ongoing need for awareness and support for its services.