2009 - 2010 Press Releases

Life Sometimes Catches Us by Surprise

Gainesville, Fla (March 11, 2010)—Life sometimes catches us by surprise—an accident, a sudden illness, an unexpected diagnosis—and we are reminded just how many events are beyond our control. It’s so important to take charge of those things we can control while we can still speak for ourselves. This is why Aging with Dignity, a national advocate of dignified care for the elderly and disabled, developed a living will called Five Wishes.

Camp Safe Haven Helped Children Heal From Loss

Jacksonville, Fla (February 19, 2010)—Teens who have lost a loved one had an opportunity to work through their grief and enjoy themselves at a day camp offered by Haven Hospice. Eight teens attended the February 15 event at Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church and School in Jacksonville. Offered through Haven’s Healing Hearts program, the camp was designed for teens ages 13 to 17.

Choosing Hospice to Extend Quality of Life

Gainesville, Fla (January 29, 2010)—A Dec. 27, 2009 New York Times article asked whether choosing hospice care results in fewer choices for patients and families and may even hasten death. But the purpose of providing quality hospice care is to extend the quality of life by giving people choices and honoring their wishes. What happens when families feel cared for and respected during this challenging time is remarkable.

Haven Hospice Names Chernoff Newman and Frankel Media Group as Agencies of Record

Gainesville, Fla (January 26, 2010)—Chernoff Newman and Frankel Media Group to Provide Full-Service Marketing, Advertising and Development Services as Haven Hospice Continues to Grow its Service Area.

Haven Hospice Launches “Caring Bears” Program

Jacksonville, Fla (January 18, 2010)—Haven Hospice volunteers have launched their “caring bears” program designed to help families of patients through a difficult time.

Camp Safe Haven to Help Children Cope with Loss in a Unique Way

Jacksonville, Fla (January 4, 2010)—Sadness, anger, confusion ‐‐ these are some of the feelings people experience when dealing with grief. However, children and adults do not grieve in the same way, so a different counseling approach is needed.

A New Year, a New You

Gainesville, Fla (December 31,2009)—If there’s one thing everyone needs in the new year, it’s a good night’s sleep. There’s nothing like sleep to recharge your batteries and protect your immune system. The downside of not getting enough sleep? Trouble concentrating or remembering, mood swings, anger and depression. Our employee health nurse Mimi Moreno recommends these tips to help you fall asleep naturally...

Haven Hospice kids’ shopping night brings smiles to more than
400 children in need

Gainesville, Fla (December 22, 2009)—The second annual Kids’ Holiday Shopping Night, hosted by Haven Hospice, brought smiles to more than 400 children at the organization’s Attic resale stores in Lake City Dec. 10 and in Gainesville Dec. 15. Participating children enjoyed the opportunity to “purchase” presents for parents, grandparents and siblings using “Santa bucks” provided by the Attic.

Haven Hospice hosts holiday breakfast for volunteers

Jacksonville, Fla (December 18, 2009)—Haven Hospice volunteers had a “rockin” good time at their annual volunteer breakfast on December 10.

Haven Hospice Donates Christmas Tree to Festival of Trees

Jacksonville, Fla (December 17, 2009)—Haven Hospice volunteers in both Jacksonville and St. Augustine decorated and donated a Christmas tree for Festival of Trees.

Future Farmers of America Donates Poinsettias to Haven Hospice

Chiefland, Fla (December 15, 2009)—The Future Farmers of America (FFA) club from Chiefland Middle School donated 20 poinsettias to patients in the Haven Hospice Tri‐Counties Care Center. The poinsettias were grown by Matthew Dettloff’s classes. There were 105 students who took part in growing these plants during the fall semester.

Marsh Landing Garden Club Presents Holiday Trees to Haven Hospice

Jacksonville, Fla (December 1, 2009)—For the 4th year, the Marsh Landing Garden Club presented Haven Hospice 19 holiday trees to give to Haven’s patients and families.

Living to Love

Gainesville, Fla (November 25, 2009)—It is that time of year again when families gather to give thanks, celebrate life and make merry. Festive gatherings, well wishes, smiles, greetings and the making of memories can take us by storm.

Nearly 300 Attend Fashion Show to Support Haven Hospice

Gainesville, Fla (November 20, 2009)—Local celebrities modeled the finest clothing and jewelry for more than 280 guests at the Haven Hospice Alliance’s Ninth Annual Styles for Life Fashion Show, a benefit for Haven Hospice, Nov. 12 at the Paramount Plaza.

Haven Hospice Names Vice President of Human Resources

Gainesville, Fla (November 18, 2009)—Haven Hospice has named Carolyn Webber vice president of human resources. With more than 20 years in human resources—specializing in acquisition and employee development—she has extensive experience in corporate strategy and human resources alignment, talent management, employee relations, compensation and benefits, leadership coaching, and organization development.

Haven Hospice Honors Veterans at Annual Veteran’s Recognition Event

Palatka, Fla (November 18, 2009)—Haven Hospice honored and thanked 53 veterans of all branches of the armed forces at their annual Veteran’s Day breakfast on Nov. 12.

Donations Needed for Haven Hospice Kid’s Night at the Attic

Lake City, Fla (November 12, 2009)—Donations are in need for kids who will be shopping for their parents, grandparents, siblings and friends at Kids’ Holiday Shopping Night at the Attic. Kids who need to stick to a shopping budget this holiday season will find that holiday gift buying is actually free. Participating children will each receive “Attic Bucks” with which to shop for speciallypriced gifts.

Donations Needed for Haven Hospice Kid’s Night at the Attic

Gainesville, Fla (November 12, 2009)—Donations are in need for kids who will be shopping for their parents, grandparents, siblings and friends at Kids’ Holiday Shopping Night at the Attic. Kids who need to stick to a shopping budget this holiday season will find that holiday gift buying is actually free. Participating children will each receive “Attic Bucks” with which to shop for speciallypriced gifts.

Haven Hospice Honors Veterans at Annual Veteran’s Day Breakfast

Chiefland, Fla (November 12, 2009)—Haven Hospice honored and thanked 53 veterans of all branches of the armed forces at their annual Veteran’s Day breakfast on Nov. 11. Nine volunteers and 17 Haven staff assisted with the breakfast that took place Haven’s Tri‐Counties Hospice Care Center.

Haven Hospice Names New Director of Marketing and Communications

Gainesville, Fla (November 10, 2009)—Haven Hospice has named Trimeka Benjamin director of marketing and communications.

Prior to joining Haven, Benjamin served as director of marketing for another hospice provider and worked for NASCAR, where she managed its consumer marketing programs in New York and Los Angeles.

Haven Hospice Joins Celebration of Those Who Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

Gainesville, Fla (November 4, 2009)—Haven Hospice joined with other local organizations to celebrate Affair to Remember Oct. 25 at The Village. The event honored professionals in the community who are dedicated to the care of Alzheimer’s as well as hospice patients.

Haven Hospice Recognizes Veterans During National Hospice Month

St Augustine, Fla (October 28, 2009)—During National Hospice Month in November, Haven
Hospice is honoring veterans for their service and dedication to our country. The Hospice‐Veteran Partnership of Florida program provides pins to honor veterans for their service to our nation.

Local Organization Donates Quilts to Haven Hospice

St Augustine, Fla (October 27, 2009)—Haven Hospice would like to thank the Peace Makers Quilt Guild of St. Augustine for the regular donations of beautiful quilts. These quilts are given to local area Haven Hospice patients and families who are served in their homes, nursing facilities and hospice care center.

AMVET Donates $1,090 to Haven Hospice

Gainesville, Fla (October 22, 2009)—AMVET Post 447 (American Veterans), a local service group in the tri‐county area, donated $1,090 to Haven Hospice. A portion of the donation was made in honor of Evelyn A. McLaughlin and William Elzey.

Haven Hospice named 2009 Alachua County Non‐Profit Business of the Year

Gainesville, Fla (October 15, 2009)—The Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce has named Haven Hospice the 2009 Alachua County Non‐Profit Business of the Year. Presented at the chamber’s annual business awards luncheon Oct. 14, the award recognizes a non‐profit organization for its role in enhancing the Alachua County community.

A Special Visitor Brings Cheer to Haven Hospice Patients

Gainesville, Fla (October 5, 2009)—The Haven Hospice E.T. York Care Center hosted a visit with Leslie Robinson and her 22‐year‐old mule, Candy Mae—volunteers who are specially trained to cheer patients and their families. Both are certified by the Delta Society, a national organization dedicated to improving human health through service and therapy animals. Numerous scientific research studies have proven that interactions with gentle animals reduce blood pressure, lower anxiety and stress levels, and stimulate the release of endorphins to help lift spirits.

Haven Hospice Hosts Open House for Suwannee Valley Care Center

Gainesville, Fla (September 25, 2009)—Haven Hospice hosted an open house on Tues., Sept. 22, for representatives of area hospitals, long‐term care facilities and nursing homes. Haven showcased the Suwannee Valley Care Center along with Haven’s services to the community, including Haven’s grief support and prehospice services.

Bettye Zowarka Shines for Haven Hospice

Gainesville, Fla (September 24, 2009)—A Haven volunteer liaison in the Keystone Heights/ Melrose area, Bettye has won one of the “12 Who Care” Community Service Awards
created more than 20 years ago by WTLV NBC 12 in Jacksonville to celebrate caring people who are making a difference in our communities through their selfless volunteer efforts. Bettye was the driving force in making hospice care available in the Keystone Heights/Melrose area.

Davis Monk Donates $390 to Haven Hospice

Gainesville, Fla (September 14, 2009)—Davis Monk & Company, an accounting firm in northern Florida, donated $390 to Haven Hospice to support Haven’s unfunded programs and services.
Davis Monk & Company, located in St. Augustine, Palatka and Gainesville, participated in Jeans for Charity, a community support activity where employees can wear jeans on Friday for a $5 charge. In the beginning of 2009, Davis Monk identified several charities they wanted to support and Haven was one of them. Haven was also chosen in 2008.

Haven Hospice Hosts Open House for E.T. York Care Center

Gainesville, Fla (September 14, 2009)—Haven Hospice hosted an open house on Tues., Sept. 8, for representatives of area hospitals, long‐term care facilities and nursing homes. Haven showcased the E.T. York Hospice Care Center along with Haven’s services to the community, including Haven’s grief support and prehospice services.

Black Prong Equestrian Center Hosts Haven Hospice’s Fall at the Derby

Bronson, Fla (September 10, 2009)—Black Prong Equestrian Center, a property and facility designed for the equestrian enthusiast and located in the heart of Florida’s timberland, will open its doors Oct. 24 to Fall at the Derby, a benefit for Haven Hospice. “We want to give back to the community and it’s for a great cause,” said Bill Wilson, property manager of Black Prong.

Haven Hospice Gains National Recognition in Research Study

Gainesville, Fla (September 8, 2009)—A study by the University of Virginia (UV) School of Nursing, recently awarded the Ruth Lanford Research Award for research in rural communities, will use data collected by Haven Hospice.

Haven Hospice launches Haven Connections

Gainesville, Fla (August 24, 2009)—Haven Hospice has launched a new service to enhance the care and support it provides to patients and their families. Haven Connections, an online journal or blog, is being offered so that patients and families can keep relatives and friends up‐to‐date and informed.

Angley College Students Raise $427 for Haven Hospice

DeLand, Fla (August 18, 2009)—Cupcakes, cookies and brownies, galore! Angley College dental students hosted a month‐long bake sale and raised $427 for to Haven Hospice. Each class within the program, 12 day classes and nine evening classes, raised money for Haven’s unfunded programs and services. Glen Lovejoy’s class raised the most money.

Nationwide Insurance raises $1,110 to benefit Haven Hospice

Gainesville, Fla (August , 2009)—Nationwide Insurance employees raised $1,110 through their quarterly fundraising program to benefit Haven Hospice. Employees donned jeans every Friday in exchange for a donation to Haven Hospice.

Haven Hospice Names New Administrators

Gainesville, Fla (July 10, 2009)—Haven Hospice has named Deborah R. Frederick, who had been serving as administrator of its Gainesville clinical teams, administrator‐at‐large. Frederick will focus on orienting new administrators, assistant administrators and patient care managers, as well as work on special operational projects. Frederick has extensive experience in hospice management and leadership. “I’m really looking forward to taking our organization to the next level in hospice care,” she said.

Benefit for Haven Hospice at Black Prong

BRONSON, Fla (July 9, 2009)—Black Prong Equestrian Center, a unique training, driving and lodging facility nestled in Goethe State Forest, will host Fall at the Derby, a benefit for Haven Hospice. The country casual evening will feature delectable food, music, and fun festivities, including a live and silent auction.

Haven Hospice Volunteers Roll Out Homemade Pie for Patients and Families

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla (July 6, 2009)—Giving of the hands and heart is as American as apple pie. Haven Hospice volunteers celebrated the Fourth of July by preparing and baking 30 apple pies to give to Haven patients and families.. Led by Haven Volunteer Coordinator Joan Whitson, the volunteers also donated the ingredients—just to bring smiles to Haven patients and families.

Pet Therapy: Bringing Comfort and Hope to Hospice Patients

GAINESVILLE, Fla (July 1, 2009)—Pets play an important role in people’s lives. From dogs to rabbits to fish, pets are faithful, loving and true. When people are nearing the end of life, faithful animals are even more valued and appreciated for their ability to offer unconditional love, comfort and happiness. At Haven Hospice, pet therapy has become a wonderful treatment option in caring for our patients— embraced by our staff, patients and families throughout our 18‐county service area.

9th Annual Caring for the Caregiver Conference a Success

GAINESVILLE, Fla (June 29, 2009)—Caregivers from all over north central Florida traveled on a “passport to paradise” to the Tower Club at the Village on Thurs., June 25, for the 9th Annual Caring for the Caregiver Conference. The conference honored caregivers for their tireless dedication by treating them to a fun‐filled day.

ANNA to host Nephrology Seminar in Jacksonville Beach

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla (June 25, 2009)— The American Nephrology Nurses’ Association (ANNA) of the North Central Florida Chapter will host a Nephrology Seminar on August 1 and 2, 2009. The seminar will be held in Jacksonville Beach, Florida and will include discussions from several knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the field, along with a variety of informational sessions.

Haven Hospice Hosts Gentle Carousel Therapy Horses

LAKE CITY, Fla (June 16, 2009)—Magic stands at only 27 inches tall, can walk up and down stairs and easily adapt to sounds and motions that might startle another animal. Anyone who encounters this miniature horse discovers that her unusually bright blue eyes can pierce the soul, providing comfort and peace. It’s those qualities, along with her gentle personality, that make her the perfect visitor for hospice patients. Thanks to an organization called Gentle Carousel Therapy Horses, Magic visited with patients and families at the Haven Hospice Suwannee Valley Care Center June 11 in Lake City.

Camp Safe Haven Helped Children Heal from Loss

GAINESVILLE, Fla (June 15, 2009)—Children who have lost a loved one had an opportunity to work through their grief and enjoy themselves at a day camp offered by Haven Hospice. The June 12 event at Camp Kulaqua in High Springs was attended by 23 children. The camp, offered through Haven’s Healing Hearts program, was designed for children ages six to 12.

Haven Hospice Scores Above National and State Average in Quality of Care Family Survey

GAINESVILLE, Fla (June 11, 2009)—Patients and families believe quality counts in hospice care. Haven Hospice, the local non‐profit leader serving the community affected by life‐limiting illness and loss, has scored above the state and national average in hospice care.

Haven Hospice Names Regional Professional Relations Manager

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla (June 3, 2009)—Haven Hospice announces the appointment of Jerrold A. (Jerry) Burroughs as the organization’s regional manager for professional relations. He reports to Andy Gray, vice president of business development.

Couple donates home and land to Haven Hospice

FANNING SPRINGS, Fla (May 29, 2009)—Good things come in all sizes. Fanning Springs residents Gene and Rita Wealing have graciously donated their home and an acre of land to Haven Hospice.

“We have been blessed all of our life and it is nice to share our blessings with others. We feel
Haven Hospice has been great to the community and we get great joy from being able to do
this,” said Rita Wealing.

Haven Hospice Scholarship Recipient Named

PALATKA, Fla (May 28, 2009)—Haven Hospice along with Florida Community College at Jacksonville announces Yusmila Dieguez as the recipient of the 2009 Haven Hospice Scholarship Award. The organization awarded Dieguez $2,500 toward her tuition and fees at Florida Community College at Jacksonville (FCCJ), where she is pursuing a degree in registered nursing. The State of Florida matches the grant for a total of $5,000.

Haven Hospice Alliance Elects New Officers

GAINESVILLE, Fla (May 21, 2009)—The Haven Hospice Alliance has elected a new board of officers at its Annual Alliance Member meeting and luncheon May 5 at the E.T. York Hospice Care Center.

Haven Hospice Honors Gainesville Area Volunteers for Dedicated Service

GAINESVILLE, Fla (May 20, 2009)—Haven Hospice recognized outstanding volunteers in the Gainesville area during a luncheon on Apr. 23 at the E.T. York Hospice Care Center. At the luncheon, themed“Haven Volunteers have shined since 1979,” the volunteers received praise for their time and dedicated service to Haven Hospice as a part of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Haven Hospice Honors Chiefland Area Volunteers for Dedicated Service

CHIEFLAND, Fla (May 20, 2009)—Haven Hospice recognized outstanding volunteers in the Chiefland area during a luncheon on Apr. 30 at Deke’s Steakhouse. At the luncheon, themed “Haven Volunteers have shined since 1979,” the volunteers received praise for their time and dedicated service to Haven Hospice as a part of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Haven Hospice Honors St. Augustine Area Volunteers for Dedicated Service

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla (May 19, 2009)—Haven Hospice recognized outstanding volunteers in the St. Augustine area during a luncheon on Apr. 22 at Pizza Garden and Pastabilities. At the luncheon, themed“Haven Volunteers have shined since 1979,” the volunteers received praise for their time and dedicated service to Haven Hospice as a part of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Haven Hospice Honors Palatka Area Volunteers for Dedicated Service

PALATKA, Fla (May 19, 2009)—Haven Hospice recognized outstanding volunteers in the Palatka area during a luncheon on Apr. 29 at the Haven Hospice Roberts Care Center. At the luncheon, themed “Haven Volunteers have shined since 1979,” the volunteers received praise for their time and dedicated service to Haven Hospice as a part of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Basic Truth About Grief

GAINESVILLE, Fla (May 19, 2009)—The emotional pain related to grief is immense. It is pain that is felt by women, men, boys, and girls. The human experience is interwoven with moments of grief‐related pain. Life events can be anticipated, or life events can happen in an instant. One life event can be the natural debility of aging. Another could be a random, senseless act of violence. In all events, people have to face the reality of pain.

Haven Hospice Honors Lake City Area Volunteers for Dedicated Service

LAKE CITY, Fla (May 18, 2009)—Haven Hospice recognized outstanding volunteers in the Lake City area during a luncheon on Apr. 16 at the Haven Hospice Suwannee Valley Care Center. At the luncheon, themed “Haven Volunteers have shined since 1979,” the volunteers received praise for their time and dedicated service to Haven Hospice as a part of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Haven Hospice Honors Jacksonville Area Volunteers for Dedicated Service

JACKSONVILLE, Fla (May 18, 2009)—Haven Hospice recognized outstanding volunteers in the Jacksonville area during a luncheon on Apr. 24 at the Olive Garden. At the luncheon, themed “Haven Volunteers have shined since 1979,” the volunteers received praise for their time and dedicated service to Haven Hospice as a part of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Marsha Davis‐Flowers Honored

PALATKA, Fla (May 12, 2009)—Marsha Davis‐Flowers, RN, administrator of Haven Hospice’s Palatka and St. Augustine offices, has been named one of the Great 100 Nurses of Northeast Florida.

Haven Hospice Names New Information Systems Directors

GAINESVILLE, Fla (May 12, 2009)—Haven Hospice has named David Kirk Director of Information Technology and John Bierman as Director of Information Systems.

Sharing in Grief and Hope

LAKE CITY, Fla (MaY 7, 2009)—Haven Hospice is offering a six-week support program for adults grieving the loss of a loved one. Please note that date, time and location is subject to change and will be confirmed when you call to register. While the sessions are free, you must register to attend.

Volunteers Awarded for Community Service

GAINESVILLE, Fla (April 29, 2009)—Volunteers are an integral part of our community and some of Alachua County's outstanding volunteers were recognized at the 37th Annual Work of Hearts awards banquet Tuesday evening at the Parmount Plaza Hotel.

NEFAR charity bass tournament reels in over $16,000 for Haven Hospice

PALATKA, Fla (April 27, 2009)—More than 100 fishermen and women participated in the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors (NEFAR) Sixth Annual Charity Bass Fishing Tournament on Sat., Apr. 25 in Palatka. Funds raised will go to Haven Hospice and the Roberts Hospice Care Center in Palatka.

Guests enjoy a Cajun good time at ViVA! 2009 – A Bayou Bash benefitting
Haven Hospice

GAINESVILLE, Fla (April 27, 2009)—Guests enjoyed an evening full of true Cajun cuisine, a jazz parade and dancing the 5th annual ViVA! 2009 – A Bayou Bash benefitting Haven Hospice on Saturday, April 18 at the Rembert Farm in Alachua.

Hoppin’ for Haven Hospice

JACKSONVILLE, Fla (April 8, 2009)—Children and their parents enjoyed brunch with Hoppity Bunny at the Fifth Annual Haven Hospice Bunny Brunch and Silent Auction held on Sun., Apr. 5 at Deercreek Country Club. Activities included an Easter egg hunt, photos with Hoppity Bunny, a magic show and face painting. All proceeds raised help support Haven Hospice’s Unsubsidized patient care and community programs in the Jacksonville area.

Haven Hospice Healing Hearts Offers Support for Adult Women Grieving the Loss of a Mother

GAINESVILLE, Fla (April 1, 2009)—Haven Hospice offers a free six-week support program for adult women grieving the loss of a mother. While the sessions are free, you must register to attend. Call Vonceil Levine, MSW, at 352-379-2929 to register or for more information.

Haven Hospice Healing Hearts Offers Support for Parents Who Have Lost A Child

GAINESVILLE, Fla (April 1, 2009)—Haven Hospice offers a free six-week support program for parents who have lost a child. While the sessions are free, you must register to attend. Call Vonceil Levine, MSW, at 352-379-2929 to register or for more information.

Haven Hospice to Host Hospice Foundation of America’s 16th Annual Teleconference

GAINESVILLE, Fla (March 24, 2009)—The Hospice Foundation of America’s 16th Annual National Bereavement Teleconference on “Diversity and End‐of‐Life Care” will take place on April 29, 2009, throughout 2,000 communities in the United States. This teleconference will feature a panel of noted individuals, including renowned author and professor, Dr. Ken Doka, PhD, MDiv.

Taking Action: Make Your Future Health‐care Wishes Known

GAINESVILLE, Fla (March 20, 2009)—Making plans for the future is not an easy thing to do. Things change every day. From the weather to jobs to the current economic environment, nothing seems to be consistent. Yet, when it comes to your health care, it is vitally important to decide now what you want and share this information with you family and friends.

Haven Hospice Leads Local Initiative to Promote Second Annual National
Healthcare Decisions Day

GAINESVILLE, Fla (March 20, 2009)—Haven Hospice, along with other national, state and community organizations, is leading the local effort to highlight the importance of advance health-care planning by recognizing April 16, 2009 as the second annual National Healthcare Decisions Day..

Healing Hearts Support for Individuals and Families

DELAND, Fla (February 27, 2009)—Haven Hospice is offering a six-week support program for elderly family members grieving a loss of a parent, adult child or spouse. Please note that date, time and location is subject to change and will be confirmed when you call to register. While the sessions are free, you must register to attend.

Haven Hospice Welcomes New Administrator in DeLand

DELAND, Fla (February 20, 2009)—Stephen Towns, certified in hospice and palliative care administration, recently joined Haven Hospice as administrator at the organization’s new DeLand office serving Volusia and Flagler counties. He has served in hospice care for more than 25 years, most recently as executive director of Vistacare Hospice in Savannah, Ga. Prior to that, Towns served as president of Hospice at Home in southwestern Michigan.

The Haven Hospice Attic is Rollin' into Palatka!

PALATKA, Fla (February 20, 2009)—Help support Haven Hospice’s unfunded programs by donating your gently-used housewares to the Haven Hospice Attic Between 9 a.m. and noon and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, February 25 through Friday, February 27. Roberts Hospice Care Center at 6400 St. Johns Avenue in Palatka.

Bunny Brunch 2009 Supports Haven Hospice Programs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla (February 17, 2009)—Haven Hospice hosts Bunny Brunch 2009, featuring festivities for the whole family, including an egg hunt, photos with Hoppity Bunny and a clown, a magic show and a silent auction. Brunch includes fresh fruit, homemade muffins and Danish, scrambled eggs, bacon strips and sausage patties, Key West French toast with mango syrup topped with bananas, kiwi, and fresh berries, Boursin stuffed chicken and seasonal vegetables. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sun., Apr. 5, 2009.

Haven Hospice's Palliative Massage Therapy Program Offers Comfort to Patients

GAINESVILLE, Fla (February 16, 2009)—Palliative massage has become one of the fastest growing trends in therapy for hospice patients. Used as a method for relaxation to alleviate stress, anxiety and pain, as well as providing an alternative to those who can not take medication or prefer not to, palliative massage therapy has become essential in hospice care.

Haven Hospice Welcomes New Patient Care Manager

PALATKA, Fla (February 13, 2009)—Leslie McNeal, RN, BSN, recently joined Haven Hospice as a patient care manager at the organization’s Palatka office. She served the Ocala area for five years as an assistant manager of Hospice of Marion County. She also worked at Leesburg Regional Medical Center in the Cardiac Medical Unit and Outpatient Oncology/Infusion Center.

Haven Hospice Attic Hosts Third Annual Antique Road Show Featuring John Sikorski

GAINESVILLE, Fla (February 12, 2009)—Maybe you’re hoping to net some extra cash from your vintage collections, or just want to know what your treasured heirlooms are worth. Let antiques expert John Sikorski, host of the radio show Sikorski’s Attic, evaluate them for you at the Third Annual Haven Hospice Attic Antique Roadshow from 1 to 4 p.m. Sat., Feb. 28, at 300 NW 8th Ave. in Gainesville.

Haven Hospice Welcomes Associate Medical Director

DELAND, Fla (February 11, 2009)—Therese Ibrahim, M.D., has joined Haven Hospice as associate medical director at the organization’s new DeLand office serving Volusia and Flagler counties. Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, she has a special interest in hospice and palliative medicine and has provided care for geriatric, pediatric and adolescent patients. Dr. Ibrahim also is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Florida Academy of Family Physicians.

Seeking Nominations for the Work of Heart Awards Honoring Community Volunteers

GAINESVILLE, Fla (February 11, 2009)—Volunteers are an integral part of our community, and now is the time to recognize their outstanding service with the Work of Heart awards. Work of Heart awards will be given to those who have provided the best examples of volunteerism in Alachua County in 2008. Show your appreciation by taking a few moments to nominate a deserving person or group.

Haven Hospice Medical Director Neel G. Karnani Named DCMS Vice-President

GAINESVILLE, Fla (February 3, 2009)—The Duval County Medical Society (DCMS) elected Haven Hospice Medical Director Neel G. Karnani, MD, as vice-president.

Haven Chaplains Provide Support that Respects Patients' Beliefs

GAINESVILLE, Fla (February 3, 2009)—A recent New York Times article reported that more and more hospice patients are relying on a hospice chaplain to provide the support they need in a way that respects their beliefs. And an increasing number of pastors are choosing to serve as hospice chaplains to meet the growing need for spiritual support.

American Cancer Society Honors Haven Hospice as Cattle Baron Ball Sponsor

LAKE CITY, Fla (February 3, 2009)—The American Cancer Society High Five Unit of the North Central Area presented a plaque to Haven Hospice for serving as a Quick Draw sponsor of the 2008 Cattle Baron’s Ball, held Aug. 2 at the Lake City Community College. Licensed as a not-for-profit hospice since 1980, Haven Hospice this year celebrates 30 years of caring for patients and
families in North Florida.

Haven Hospice's Bayou Bash—ViVA! 2009—Returns for a Fifth Year

GAINESVILLE, Fla (February 2, 2009)—ViVA! 2009—A Bayou Bash, featuring music, dancing and other bayou festivities, Cajun cuisine by Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, live and silent auctions of vacation adventures, jewelry, a private wine-tasting party and more. 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2009 at Rembert Farm in Alachua, Florida. Reservations and tickets are required.

Chamber Named Haven Hospice Civic Organization of the Year

TRENTON, FL (January 23, 2009)—At its annual banquet last night, the Gilchrist County Chamber of Commerce presented Haven Hospice with the 2008 Civic Organization of the Year Award. Gilchrist County Judge Edward Philman, a former Haven Hospice board member, presented the award.

Haven Hospice Holds Grand Opening Celebration in DeLand Office

DELAND, FL (January 19, 2009)—Haven Hospice, a not-for-profit hospice provider who has served patients and families in North Florida for more than 30 years, will celebrate the Grand Opening of its DeLand office on Wed., Jan. 28, beginning with a ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. The new office is at 211 - B North Amelia Avenue, and will serve patients and families in Volusia and Flagler counties.

Haven Hospice Attic Hosts Third Annual Attic Roadshow Featuring John Sikorski

GAINESVILLE, FL (January 16, 2009)—Whether you’re hoping to net some extra cash from your vintage collections, or just want to know what your treasured heirlooms are worth, let antiques expert John Sikorski, host of the radio show Sikorski’s Attic, evaluate them for you at the Third Annual Haven Hospice Attic Antique Roadshow. Admission to the event is free.

Planning Ahead with Advance-Care Directives

GAINESVILLE, FL(January 1, 2009)—Advance health-care directives, sometimes referred to as simply “advance directives” or“advance decisions,” are an individual’s instructions detailing what actions should be taken for his or her health in the event the person becomes unable to voice those decisions due to illness or incapability.