Hospice aids those in their final days
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A Cookeville-based, not-for-profit organization, Lazarus House assists those who have been diagnosed as having less than six months to live.
Lazarus House was founded in 1989, and now offers its services to 15 counties in the Upper Cumberland area. Hospice takes a holistic approach with its patients, helping to provide mind, body and spiritual care through a network of people including nurses, pastors, counselors and volunteers.
Local volunteer Betty Hallum has been a part of Lazarus House Hospice for the past three years, helping over 14 patients and their families. She also received the Heart of Hospice Award in 2002
“The work is so rewarding to me. It’s almost too personal for me to talk about,” said Hallum. “My patients and their families have become my friends, not just patients.”
Hospice will work directly with your doctor for your medical needs while offering help with daily activities, medications related to your illness and emotional support for both you and your caregivers.
They accept insurance and Medicaid but will not turn you away if you have been approved by a doctor for hospice but are unable to pay.
“Hospice’s main goal is to improve one’s quality of life for the time they have left,” said Skeeter Flowers, volunteer coordinator.
Flowers says volunteers are the heart of the organization and right now there are only two in Warren County. A training session is going to be held starting Feb. 26 at First United Methodist Church in downtown McMinnville.
There is a $10 registration fee and certain qualifications, but volunteers are greatly needed. Anyone who would like more information on volunteering, or about the services offered by Lazarus House Hospice, can contact Flowers at 1-800-468-4123.