Hospice grateful for community support

A community united is a powerful force. And once again, our friends in McHenry, Lake and Cook counties demonstrated the power of community as they rallied their support for special fundraising events planned and organized by individuals who believe in the mission of hospice care: The Michels Family Golf Outing in McHenry and The fifth annual Peggy Kinnane's golf outing in Arlington Heights.

Held recently, both outings collected impressive totals, with Peggy Kinnane's outing raising $25,000 and the Michels' event bringing in $7,000.

These "Third Party" events which are run specifically as fundraisers for the agency, not only brought together people who enjoy the game of golf while supporting a good cause, it garnered an impressive level of support and goodwill from area businesses and families.

Hospice of Northeastern Illinois was founded 26 years ago by a small group of thoughtful and committed citizens who believed they could make the world a better place. Today, as evidenced through the success of these special events, that same vision, energy and dedication are still clearly woven into the fabric of our communities. I am humbled by, and grateful for, the events' founders and volunteers, sponsors and friends. While the events are enjoyed by the many who attended, they also served as an important, although unintended, statement about the people who live and work in our communities.

Donations made to Hospice of Northeastern Illinois through events such as these, provide much needed funds which are necessary to carry out our mission to provide dignified and compassionate care and guidance to those coping with loss and the end-of-life regardless of ability to pay. The funds also ensure the availability of extra services offered to patients and families, including integrative therapies like music, art and massage, as well as comprehensive bereavement services.

A special thanks must be extended to the Michels family, who experienced HNI hospice care firsthand for Ro Michels' mother. In addition, thanks to Derek Hanley and his family, whose ties to hospice care extend all the way back to Ireland with care provided to Derek's father, Jack. We sincerely appreciate that year after year, these families dedicate their time into making these fundraisers successful.

William Ries, interim president and CEO

Hospice of Northeastern Illinois