life serving his family and community with humble respect.
At the end of his life, his dire condition required the
services of Hospice. His last, precious moments on Earth
were spent at home, with loving visits from family and
friends. Despite the difficulties of his illness, there were
moments of gentleness. As the hospice nurse attended to
his daily needs, she sang. Her gentle voice brought peace
and comfort to Bill, a truly immeasurable blessing.
Lindi Armstrong, Bill's daughter, is thankful that the
nurse brought welcomed relief to her father as he entered
the last phase of his life. "Their care and concern was very
much appreciated. Daddy was able to stay at home where
he could be with his friends and loved ones."
Hospice Brazos Valley in 1989. "It took a lot of work at
the beginning," Ann recalls. HBV is the only non-profit
hospice for a region that includes 17 counties such as
Brazos, Washington, Fayette, Brenham and LaGrange. It
services the needs of those like Bill who are in their last
days of life and require critical nursing care.
In 1990, a compassionate group of volunteers decided to
form the Hospice Auxiliary. The group's first president
was Pat Runge. With her devout encouragement, the
organization raised funds and aided HBV with finances.
"Through our garage sales and wreath sales, we were
able to help pay some of their bills, including electric
and telephone. Our donations even helped to meet their
payroll."
the physical and emotional needs of terminally ill patients
who are unable to afford private care. Today, the inpatient
facility has seven private suites that provide short-term and
acute care in a warm, family-oriented environment.
Valley supported HBV, donating thousands of dollars to
the facility through a variety of fundraisers. This past year
the Auxiliary sold more than 540 wreaths, along with door
charms, craft items and greeting cards. They collected from
penny jars, held game days, and helped to underwrite "The
Happening," a major fundraiser held each year by HBV.
their annual spring luncheon at La Riviera Restaurant in
Bryan. Tickets for the luncheon are $21, and reservations
must be made by May 16, 2013.