She carried that well known red and white paper bag to the front door. She could smell the aromas from the fresh-cut fries and grilled hamburger patty. She knocked, the door opened, and she walked in with a big smile. He was beaming, and his eyes lit up as he welcomed her. It was what he had been waiting for, In-N-Out Burger!
Most would agree a smile and love can brighten even the darkest of days. Well, apparently so can In-N-Out Burger! This special moment for this hospice patient was delivered courtesy of The LightBridge Hospice Foundation Simple Gifts Program which has been eliciting smiles, hope, joy, and love for hospice patients for nearly fifteen years. This program was designed to grant end of life wishes that have special meaning for hospice patients and create moments to be cherished and forever remembered.
Last year, through the LightBridge Hospice Community Foundation, over 120 wishes were granted to our patients. These wishes are as broad and diverse as the patients we serve and have included airline tickets to a family wedding, a variety of favorite meals from various restaurants, special transportation arrangements so a grandmother could celebrate with him at her beloved grandson's wedding reception and even a visit to the beach to feel the sand underfoot one more time. These are just a few examples of the magic that happens as our staff and volunteers listen to each patient and family for an opportunity to fulfill a special wish through the program.
A patient was moved to tears when she was presented a dozen yellow long stem roses for her 103rd birthday. Growing up during the Great Depression, she was not accustomed to celebrating her birthday. She was thrilled to receive the flowers and touched by the thoughtfulness and love shown by our team. The moments created by these gifts show our patients they matter, and we care and also provide lasting memories for families.
The program is made possible through donations received from families and friends in honor of their loved ones. These gifts, no matter the size, ensure the continued success of the program and remind us that it is, more often than not, the simple things in life that hold so much value and meaning.
LightBridge is committed to providing unique, specialized care to our patients and their families and caregivers as well as making each patient's journey the very best it can possibly be – filled with meaningful moments and everlasting memories! We are thrilled to offer Simple Gifts as part of the comprehensive care plan for each of our patients.
To learn more about the Simple Gifts program or to donate please CLICK HERE.
