Jon us at the Saranac Lake Free Library on November 5th at noon for our lunchtime chat session – all are welcome!

From Local Need to Regional Impact: The History of High Peaks Hospice

Did you know that prior to the early ’80s the Adirondacks lacked the hospice services many now take for granted? That started to change in 1983, when a shift in Medicare’s payment system made it harder for hospitals to admit patients simply to “die with dignity.” Families suddenly found themselves caring for loved ones at home, often without the support they needed.

In response, Anne and Dr. C. David Merkel of Saranac Lake, along with a small group of compassionate professionals, set out to bring hospice care to the region — a mission that brought High Peaks Hospice to fruition.

Our upcoming session will feature a short video of the hospice’s founders (pictured) as they reflect on those early days. Following the video, High Peaks Hospice representatives will then dive into discussions of the array of services High Peaks Hospice provides at such a sensitive time.

Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the comfort, dignity, and support hospice care brings — because, as we say, “Hospice brings life to your days, when you can no longer add days to your life.”

Presenters –
Sara DeSimone, Marketing and Outreach
Bea Beguin, Board Member and Hospice Volunteer
Peggy Wiltberger, RN, Former Hospice Nurse/Board Member

Coffee and cookies will be provided, attendees are welcome to bring their lunch!