OKEECHOBEE – Okeechobee County Commissioners honored hospice at their Dec. 2 meeting with a special proclamation for National Hospice Month.

“Hospice staff and volunteers provide a special kind of caring, and help meeting the medical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of more than 139,875 patients, adults and children throughout Florida last year,” the proclamation notes. In Okeechobee, 204 patients, adults and children received hospice services.

“Hospice continues its focus on the family and those close to the patient, serving hundreds of thousands of Florida’s citizens with bereavement and caregiving assistance,” the proclamation continues. “Florida hospices support research to improve quality and access and encourage innovation in end-of-life care; and serving hundreds of thousands of Florida’s citizens with bereavement and caregiving assistance.”

Hallie Messner, of Hospice of Okeechobee, said hospice has been in the area for more than 40 years. The professional team delivers quality clinical care, pain control, symptom management and spiritual support for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. Hospice care is available in primary residences, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing homes and hospitals.

In the past year, Hospice of Okeechobee add a grief support program for children who have lost their parents to COVID-19, added Ruth Bobst, also of Hospice of Okeechobee.

She said the Hospice of Okeechobee yard sale has also helped those who have suffered from fire or hurricane damage.

“When you need somebody, it’s good to know they are already providing the service,” said Commissioner David Hazellief. “It’s a great service.”