I'm participating in Androscoggin's Hike for Hospice to raise awareness of hospice care and critical funds to ensure that everyone receives the care they need at the most vulnerable time of their lives, regardless of their ability to pay for their care.

“Our goal is for you to be as comfortable as can be, so you are able to be as independent as possible, for as long as possible experiencing the people and activities you enjoy… Hospice care aims to reduce physical, emotional and spiritual discomfort through pain and symptom management, counseling, and other support for patients at the end of life as well as their loved ones.”

Androscoggin Hospice provided services to my extended family for a number of years. My father, Henry Hamilton, first received services at home and later on at the lovely Hospice House in Auburn ME. Please take a minute to look them up online. The setting and the people who work there are amazing. My father passed away from pancreatic cancer on December 24, 2018.

Shortly after, my stepfather Lloyd Grover began receiving services at home. Parkinsonism symptoms made daily living impossible. He was able to stay at home much longer because of his dedicated team from Androscoggin. Lloyd passed away on August 23, 2020.

Both were from Otisfield, hence the name Stars of Otisworld!

It takes a very special kind of person to work or volunteer for Hospice. I know I don't have it in me, so the least I can do is bring attention to them (and hopefully some support) by participating in this hike. I welcome you to join me by joining my team and/or donating. Thank you so much!