The Hospice Dreams summer issue is packed with recent dreams we've granted, from meeting Ted Nugent, to fishing, visiting Six Flags Great America and more!
Events -- In Memorium Quarterly Issue 3: July 2012 The Newsletter of Hospice Dreams D reams Dreams Are Ageless www.HospiceDreams.org CALLING IRELAND TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME HAIRBALL RICHARD HAS A ROCKIN’ TIME CELEBRATING NATIONAL PUBLIC GARDEN DAY VISITING REMBRANDT AT THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ART AN ARTIST’S DAY AT THE MUSEUM MEETING TED NUGENT GRANDDAUGHTER’S WEDDING A PRAYER AT ST. MARY’S 8MM FILM SCREENING BIG BAND MEMORIES RELIVED DAY AT THE PARK SIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA GRADUATION PARTY FOR HER DAUGHTER DAY AT THE BEACH 50 TH ANNIVERSARIES FAN FACEOFF CARDINALS VS. CUBS TEA PARTY FOR VI A FINE DAY FOR FISHING CABIN BY THE LAKE Cols of Hope
Transcript
Dreams are Ageless 1
Events -- In Memorium
Quarterly Issue 3: July 2012
The Newsletter of Hospice Dreams
DreamsD r e a m s A r e A g e l e s s
www.HospiceDreams.org
CallingIreland
Take me ouT To The
Ball Game
HaIrBallriChard has a roCkin’ Time
CelebraTing natIonal PuBlIc Garden day
Visiting RembRandtat the detRoit institute of aRt
an aRtist’s day
at tHe museum
meeTing ted
nuGent
granddaughTer’s Wedding
a PRayeR at
st. maRy’s
8mmFilm sCreening
BIG Bandm e m o R i e s R e L i V e d
day at tHe
Parksix fLags gReat
ameRica
GraduatIon PartyFor her daughTerday at tHe BeacH
50th AnniversAries
Fan FaceoFFC a r d i n a l s v s . C u b s
tea PartyFor vi
A Fine DAy for fishing
caBIn By tHe lake
Colors of Hope
Dreams are Ageless2
Mission Statement: Hospice Dreams is a non-profit wish granting organization dedicated to fulfilling unmet wishes, decreasing stress and improving quality of life for adult hospice patients.
Dreams & News In This IssueLetter from the Director Vi’s Tea Party - Vaira Heiniger50th Anniversaries - Adolf & Merle Perez - Robert & Barb StygarGranddaughter’s Wedding - Katherine BeringerA Prayer at St. Mary’s - Patricia MurphyReminiscing over Big Band Music - Richard “Dick” MilanoCelebrating National Public Garden Day - Evelyn MeltonSkype Call to Ireland - Thomas Healy8mm Film Screening - Bernie Duddleston Meeting Ted Nugent - Michael Golder Rockin’ Out with Hairball - Richard MinceyTake Me Out to the Ball Game - Jo Narup
Fan Faceoff - Adolph Digirolomo -Willie CageAn Artist’s Day at the Museum - Frank VicariVisiting Rembrandt - Diane PollockA Day at the Park - Toni SowellGraduation Party - Shirley ConwayA Day at the Beach - Michael LarussaA Fine Day for Fishing -Ray Cauwels - Don McKown Cabin by the Lake - Robert Gosch Events - Colors of Hope
Letters and Posts
Donations
Dreams in the News
Staff Page
Index
Mailing Address:511 E. North StreetBradley, IL 60915Toll-Free Phone:(888) 741-9132
Letters may be submitted to Hospice DreamsAttn: Dreams Newsletter511 E. North StreetBradley, IL 60915
Contents are copyright Hospice Dreams. If you would like to use any article or photo please contact [email protected] for permission.
Hospice Dreams is a registered 501(c)3 charity and your donations are tax-deductible.
C orporate sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact our office directly for more information at (888) 741-9132 or email [email protected].
attended the play was hope. Please read more about Colors of Hope on page 23.
So whether the dream was to throw a graduation party, have high tea in the style of the British royalty or go on a boat ride for the first time, I hope these stories bring a smile to your face like they did to ours, and remind you that Dreams truly are ageless!
I am also very excited to announce that Hospice Dreams has been selected as the Midwest Small Charity of the Year by the Stay Classy organization! The Classy Awards recognize the best non-profit groups across the country, and we’re honored to be in the company of such amazing organizations! The national awards ceremony will be held on September 22nd in San Diego, and we can’t wait to find out the results.
September 24th is right around the corner! Don’t forget to make reservations for our upcoming golf outing at the Kankakee Country Club. Proceeds from this fundraiser will help us to make dreams come true for more hospice patients. If you are unable to attend any of our fundraisers, please take a moment and visit our website www.hospicedreams.org. There you’ll see our online Virtual Quilt that is filled with the memories families and friends have shared about a loved one. With a small donation you can create your own quilt square in memory of your loved one.
I always want to leave a final thought with you, please take a moment and ask yourself: “What would be your Dream?”
With much respect and gratitude,
Kansas SwainDirector of Foundation DevelopmentHospice Dreams
Letter from the Director
S ummer in the Midwest has proven to
be one of the hottest on record! Here at Hospice Dreams, we’re heating up
too - blazing towards our goal of granting 125 Dreams! As we enter into our 3rd quarter, I am happy to announce we have granted 42 dreams. I am also happy to announce that our very own Kristen Kolwelter has accepted a position as Dream Development Manager. Kristen has had much success over the past year and has included Michigan as part of her territory as well!As I mentioned in last quarter’s edition, patients always seem to want to be outside during this season. Requests for outdoor Dreams are soaring! We have had some amazing baseball outings, visits to the zoo, garden visits, fishing dreams and many other outdoor dreams.
I am always amazed and humbled when Kristine works on laying out our newsletter. An unmistakable message that is delivered when looking at these photos and stories is love. There is love between the patients and their families love a hospice staff member shows through care and the love that celebrities, businesses and everyday people must have to make these Dreams so special. I am truly humbled by your acts of love and kindness, and on behalf of everyone here at Hospice Dreams, thank you. Special thanks also go out to our two newest hospice partners, BJC Hospice of St. Louis and Hospice and Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois.
We recently experienced love in yet another form through the generosity of a gentleman by the name of Andrew Mahan and the cast of Colors of Hope. Those who saw Colors of Hope experienced some sadness and some humor, but what resonated loudest with everyone who
Tea Party Vi and her daughters visited Her Majesty’s English Tea Room in Dunlap.
Pictured Below: The tea room is ready for guests.Above: Vi takes a photo with the royal couple.Inset, Right: Vi’s plate was specially decorated.Right: Vi poses for a photo with her daughters.
Vi Heininger has always considered herself a socialite. She misses the old days, when dressing up for tea with her friends was the highlight of a lady’s afternoon.
Heininger describes herself as 83 years young, and even as a hospice patient, she’s determined to maintain her favorite traditions. On Friday, April 27th, Heininger was the guest of honor at Her Majesty’s English Tea Room in Dunlap. After a mini-makeover, Heininger put on her finest jewels (and tiara!) and joined her three daughters for an afternoon out.
“We thought this would be a way to really celebrate her and to interact with us girls,” said Heininger’s daughter Debbie Henkins. “She always likes it when the three of us are together.”
Heininger and her three daughters enjoyed nine courses of traditional English treats, from tea to scones, before retiring for the evening.
Vi’s
i5
For Adolf and Merle it was love at first sight. After 50 years together,
they both have difficulty traveling, so Hospice Dreams helped them get together to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. The Perez’s three sons Adolf Jr., Jesse, and Pete, along with their families, and Adolf ’s sister Zorida, came to the special celebration. Surrounded by friends and family, and having traveled far to be together, Merle and Adolf renewed their vows.
Richard and Barb wanted to celebrate their 50th wedding
anniversary with a marriage blessing by Father Julien from Joliet. Family and friends attended the short ceremony and then went to a delicious luncheon prepared by Judy, their daughter. It was a joyful occasion and the family was thankful to be able to get together to celebrate this milestone.
Celebrating
In the summer of 1962, two different couples made their vows to stay together through sickness and health. Their love stood the test of time, and now, 50 years later, they each celebrated a golden milestone surrounded by family and friends.
Kathryn Baringer, 93, has always had a special bond with her granddaughter Kathryn Horvath. As her granddaughter’s namesake, Baringer shared the unconditional love of a grandparent and her wisdom with the younger woman.
O ne of Baringer’s proudest moments was when her granddaughter announced
her engagement. But as a hospice patient, Baringer wasn’t sure if she would be able to attend the wedding many months away. Stil l, she set a dream firmly in her mind to see her granddaughter happily married.
Hospice Dreams stepped in to make Baringer’s dream come true. The festivities started a day before the wedding, when a stylist did
her hair and painted her nails. Then, on May 19th, Hospice Dreams staff accompanied her to the church where her granddaughter would be married. As a special honor, Baringer was escorted down the aisle by an usher. During the ceremony, the bride slipped on her grandmother’s heirloom wedding ring. “My goodness gracious, look at that ring,” Baringer said. “It’s just beautiful on her.”
Family photos and a reception rounded out the day that she worried she might not see. “I’m
blessed to be here. I’m so happy,” she said.
Wedding Granddaughter’s
Patty Murphy, 81, poses in front of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kewanee with her family and caregivers.
a Prayer at
St. Mary’sR os e wo o d C are C enter res ident Patty Mur phy
re cent ly ce lebrate d a day wit h her ex tende d fami ly. Mur phy, 81 , i s now a hospice p at ient wit h Pass ages Hospice , and re ce ive d her wish to v i s i t her hometown of Ke wane e t hroug h Hospice Dre ams .
Murphy’s first stop was at the house where she raised her two daughters. Then, 15 family members, including a daughter from Florida and a nephew from Africa, met Murphy at St. Mary’s Catholic Church where she lit a candle and said a special prayer for her family. The entire family enjoyed a meal together at the Station House restaurant, where Murphy ordered her favorite patty melt with fries.
Richard “Dick” Milano and his wife of 69 years hadn’t seen each other in over a year due to a few circumstances. At a local nightclub called
Fitzgeralds they got a chance to get together and listen to some of their favorite big band tunes.
Richard Milano grew up to the sounds of Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington in the Roaring 20s. A couple of decades later, he danced the jitterbug with his sweetheart, Milly. Their dates to local dance halls were a welcome relief from the stress of wartime life. For more than five decades, Richard and Milly held a special place in their heart for the big band music of their youth. Now 91 and a hospice patient, Richard can’t dance quite like he used to. Milly is sick, too, and the couple haven’t seen each other in more than a year.
When Millie walked up to Dick he immediately smiled and they greeted each other. They sat next to each other the rest of the evening, never leaving each others side, and one by one, children and grandchildren visited with them. The main band, having learned about the couple in the audience, dedicated their songs that night to Dick and Millie. As the live music played throughout the club, Dick and Millie held hands and got one more chance to reminisce about the past and spend some time together.
Dick and Millie holding hands at the club
Dick and Millie greet each other for the first time in over a year.
Above and below: Some photos of Dick and Millie early on in their lives. They celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary this year.
Evelyn Melton loves flowers and until recent years, loved to garden with her husband Jim.
With a passion for all things involving horticulture, a
special day was planned for Evelyn. On National Public Garden day, she visited Luthy Botanical Garden in Peoria as guest of honor and was given a private tour with her family. Bob, the manager of Luthy Botanical Gardens, guided the tour of the grounds. Luthy Botanical Gardens span over 5 acres, have over a dozen theme gardens and a Conservatory. Evelyn was sure to visit the rose
garden to see her favorites, yellow roses. At the end of the tour, Bob gave her a t-shirt and a small plant for her room. Both Evelyn and Jim had a lovely time and were really glad to be able to visit the gardens together one more time.
celebRating
Evelyn poses with her husband before leaving for the gardens.
Evelyn hugs her
great-grand daughter
Evelyn’s family was given permission to write her name on the autograph tree
Tommy poses for a “photo” with his sisters, nieces, nephews, and family members.
IrelandWhen most people want to see
their family, they just call and plan a meet up. plan to meet.
But in Thomas Healy’s case, his family lives more than 3,000 miles away in Dublin, Ireland and Tommy’s health prevents him from traveling.
Tommy hadn’t seen his sisters, nephews or nieces in more than 6 years. With the help of technology and a little time zone math, the family shared a video call. Tommy’s family gathered in his sister’s Dublin home so everyone could “see” Tommy. Emotions ran high as Tommy and his sisters sang their favorite traditional songs - something they did for many years in Ireland. Though Tommy has trouble communicating, he told his family he loves them all and misses them.
Tommy’s sisters, with the rest of the family in the background, greet him over the computer
Tommy listens as his Sisters give him updates on the family.
F a m i l y F i l m sBernie Duddleston was that dad - the one always toting a camera to family events, vacations and trips to the lake. He loved filming and taking pictures on his old 8mm (and later, Super 8) cameras. As technology changed, the films sat in their canisters and became little time capsules waiting to be watched. For Bernie’s Dream, he wanted to see the films again and share the memories with his family. With a little creativity and the help of a former film student, we recorded Bernie’s films onto DVDs. Bernie was also treated to a private screening of the films using an old projector. Some of his favorite footage was from Disneyland, Yellowstone, Las Vegas and his childrens’ weddings. Bernie was also relieved to know that the films were preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Hours of 8mm and super 8 footage were projected and recorded via video camera so that we could quickly transfer it to dvd for Bernie.
Yellowstone Park circa the 1960s.Las Vegas in the late 1960’s
Michael Golder always wanted to be a musician. From a young age he would sit and practice his guitar for hours, but life had a different plan for Michael. At just 19, a motorcycle accident left him paralysed and he found himself unable to perform the rock n’ roll music he so enjoyed. A series of strokes followed and Michael found himself blind and in a wheelchair. Michael, now 55, still loves to listen to rock n’ roll music. One of his favorites, rock legend Ted Nugent, showed his softer side by donating concert tickets and bringing Golder backstage before the show. Michael was thrilled to meet one of his music idols and they spent time talking and joking around. Michael met the rest of the band and even met Ted’s hunting dog. Before going out on stage, Nugent presented Michael with signed memorabilia and some special guitar picks.
While performing, Ted dedicated one of his songs to Michael. Michael had a blast, and said, “What a rush!”
Michael and Ted Nugent pose for a photo together.Above inset: Ted Nugent presented Michael with a signed photo and two of his guitar picks.
attending a concert by the very talented cover band, Hairball.
Hairball performed famous songs by most of the famous hairbands and rockers. They performed a variety of hits from performers like Bon Jovi, Judas Priest, Twisted Sister, Journey, Poison, Queen, AC/DC, Van Halen, and Kiss - in costume!
Attending the dream with Richard was his daughter. She said, “This is the happiest I’ve
seen him in a long time.” They bonded over the experience and really had a fun time listening to the music that held special meaning to Richard. After the concert, and in all the smoke from the fireworks and effects still filling backstage, Richard got to meet with the rockers. Hairball members Kris Voxx, Rockstar Bob, Joe Dandy, Freaky, Colt Python, and Happy were glad to help Richard and his daughter to get a chance to rock out at a concert one last time.
Hairball performing as Kiss Hairball takes the stage as Twisted Sister Richard met with with band members of Hairball backstage after the show.
For Richard Mincey, 54, any night listening to his old favorites like Creedence Clearwater Revival, Lynyrd Skynard, Billy Idol and other rockers is a good night - and it’s even better when it’s a live concert that he can bond over with his daughter!
J o Narrup’s love of baseball began at a young age, starting out when she’d listen to games on the radio with her dad and brothers. She is a huge St. Louis
Cardinals fan, and though she follows along with every game on TV, she hadn’t been to a baseball game in quite some time. When she found out she was headed to Busch Stadium for a Cardinals game she was overjoyed.
When the big day arrived, the Director of Nursing where she lives presented Jo with a statue of her all-time favorite Cardinal’s player, Stan “The Man” Musial. Accompanying Jo were her two nurses, who also dressed in Cardinals gear to show support. Jo was no slacker when it came to showing off her Cardinal’s pride - she went to the game fully decked-out in Cardinals gear (down to her Cardinals socks) - and she was ready to cheer her beloved team as they faced their rivals, the Chicago White Sox. She even donned a temporary tattoo of the Cardinals logo and painted her nails red.
Jo enjoyed watching the game, including her current favorite player, left-fielder Matt Holliday, as the Cardinals gained the lead early in the game with a home run in the bottom of the 3rd. Jo loves not only watching the game but also brought along a clipboard to write down the statistics, just like her dad used to do. She even enjoyed a hotdog, explaining that, “they taste better at a ballpark!” Jo was presented with a bag full of goodies from the Cardinals, and couldn’t wait to decorate her room with them.
Ball Game!
Jo looks at the pennant she received from the Cardinals.
Jo poses for a photo with one of the nurses.
Dreams are Ageless 15
It was a beautiful day for a baseball game! Crack went the bat - and so the age-old custom of a friendly rivalry began for Adolph Digirolomo and Willie Cage. Both have been lifelong fans and wanted to see their old
teams play one more time. Adolph is a dyed-in-the-wool Chicago Cubs fan, and Willie, a diehard Cardinals fan. It happened that both teams were playing
each other at nearby Busch Stadium, so Hospice Dreams brought Adolph and Willie together to the game. Willie wore Cardinals Red and Adolph showed up head-to-toe in Cubbie blue. Willie and Adolph were all smiles and traded kindly-jibes between each other about team stats and abilities. Adolph even took some time to educate his nurse on all things baseball. Everyone had a great time. The final score was 7-6, with the Cardinals taking the lead in the final inning.
Wille Cage, Cardinals fan, and Adolph Digirolomo, Cubs fan, pose for a photo at Busch
stadium.
At left: A poster was made to commemorate the friendly fan faceoff between Willie and Adoph.
Above: Adolph explains the intricacies of the game to his nurse.
Framed by a sea of Cardinals fans in red, Adolph trades a few friendly jibes with Willie.
Fan Faceoff
Dreams are Ageless16
An Artist’s Day at the Museum
F rank Vicari loves art, and as an artist, has a deep appreciation for fine art. For his dream, Frank had a special, private tour of the St. Louis Art
Museum to revisit his favorite paintings. Frank loved to discuss his favorite art period, Impressionism,
with Christine, the docent. They discussed the artists historie’s and the stories behind the paintings on display at the museum. From Monet to VanGogh, amongst others, Frank
knows his art history! When they finished viewing the many paintings of the St.
Louis Art Museum, Frank was presented with an art book and a sketch pad.
Frank really appreciated it and looks forward to filling the
sketchbook with his artwork.
Frank discusses the painting they are viewing with Christine, the docent
Christine tells the story behind one of Claude Monet’s Waterlilies paintings.
Vincent van Gogh’s “Factories at Clichy,” one of the many art pieces that Frank viewed while on his tour of the St. Louis Museum of Art.
Visiting Rembrandt and other Treasures at the Detroit Institute of Art.
Diane Pollock is fluent in several languages and is a graduate of Michigan State University’s prestigious Fine Arts program, but that isn’t what sets her apart. Within a few years of graduating from MSU, Diane was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. The disease progressed quickly and at age 27, Diane moved into a residential care facility.
She loves art, and spent many years as a member of museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Detroit Institute of Art. Some of her favorites are the old masters, Michelangelo and Rembrandt.
When Hospice Dreams was able to secure a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Detroit Institute of Art, it became a family affair.
Diane and her family were treated to a tour guided by renowned curator Nancy Sojka. Diane even got to see one of the Detroit Institute’s prized possessions, a sketch by Michelangelo from 1508 that has never been on display. The director of the Detroit Institute of Art, Graham Beal, gave Diane and her family a personal tour of the Rembrandt exhibit, discussing the
stories behind the artwork and some of Rembrandt’s history. At the end of the tour, Mr. Beal presented Diane with a book, “Treasures from the DIA.” The family was also treated to a gourmet lunch in a private dining room of the Institute. Diane and her family were extremely grateful for the special visit and tour.
Standing: (l-r) Nancy Sojka, Diane’s brother Rodney, and her sister KarenSeated: Diane, her nephew Liam, niece Andie, and her mother Elmira The Director of the Detroit Institute of Art
Graham Beal meets Diane and her family.
Director Graham Beal personally gave a tour of the Rembrandt exhibit at the Detroit Institute of Art.
Above Top: Renowned curator Nancy Sojka shows Diane and her family some special pieces of art.
Above Bottom: Nancy shows Diane a very sepecial sketch by Michelangelo from his studies for the Sistine Chapel.
Toni Sowell promised her son James that they’d go to Six Flags Great America
some day. But the four hour trip from their hometown of Peoria was a long one, and Toni’s health was declining. A few years later, Toni became a hospice patient and knew that she needed to fulfill her promise
to James soon.
Although Toni couldn’t go, Hospice Dreams helped James and his cousin Alisha make the trip from Peoria to Six Flags Great America for a day of carefree fun. Six Flags did their part by donating tickets for the group and escorting James to the best rides. James even got to skip the lines by using special passes!
As a special treat, Toni’s Dream for James was featured on ABC 7 and James got a copy of the video to show his friends at school. James enjoyed the magic of the theme park and Toni knew she’d completed her promise to her son.
James, 8, arrives for his visit to Six Flags Great America.
James and his cousin Alisha are ready to try out the roller coaster. James, wearing his superman cape,
Graduation PartyS hirley Conway’s youngest daughter, Katelyn, was approaching
a milestone - her high school graduation. Shirley wanted to throw Katelyn a graduation party, but her declining health
made it difficult. Shirley asked Hospice Dreams for help making her daughter’s day special.
Hospice Dreams provided food, cake, and help in the kitchen, and Shirley’s family decorated the house in bright orange. With her mom by her side, surrounded by friends and family, Katelyn was able to celebrate her high school graduation. John, Shirley’s husband, said, “I just can’t thank you enough. You’re a wonderful organization.”
Katelyn poses by her graduation cake
Katelyn had a sandwich and salad buffet at her high school graduation.
Shirley, her husband John, and their youngest daughter Katelyn, surrounded by friends and family, pose for a photo at the high school graduation party.
Dreams are Ageless20
M ichael L ar uss a love d t he b e ach and longe d to sp end jus t one more day a long t he shore . D ue to h is de c l ine in he a l t h , he was
unable to t rave l to t he b e ach e as i ly, s o Hospice Dre ams s tepp e d in to he lp. Michae l and h is fami ly were s e t up in a l a ke hous e in Saugatu k , Michigan s o t he y cou ld v i s i t t he b e ach . The y sp ent s e vera l hours on O va l B e ach , w here Michae l enj oye d t he s and and sun , and e ven s tuck h is fe e t in t he water.Captain Tom Van Howe donated his sailboat for a daytime trip around Saugatuk for Michael and his family. The sailing conditions were the best the captain had all year - and Michael and his family really enjoyed the sailboat ride. They stopped at Mermaids, a local diner, for dinner and to watch boats sailing by.
A Day at the BeachCaptain Tom Van Howe poses for a photo with Michael.
R ay Cauwels has had three great loves in his life: his wife Colleen, his hometown of Crystal Lake and fishing. After retiring from the Crystal Lake Post Office, Cauwels and
his wife travelled the country in their RV, searching for the best fishing spots. And although the fishing was best in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, their home would always be in Illinois.
“Those were the happiest times of our lives,” Colleen Cauwels said. “He just loved being in nature.”
But age took its toll, and at 79, Ray Cauwels hung up his rod and reel for the last time. As his health declined, he was admitted to a hospice program and thought his fishing days were over.
Recently, Ray and Colleen Cauwels received their wish - made extra special their first visit to Crystal Lake’s own Three Oaks Recreation Area. The fish weren’t biting that day, but the summer weather gave the Cauwels a near perfect day. “Fish are smart,” Ray said, explaining why he hadn’t caught anything. “But it’s a nice day out and this is a heck of a place.”
W hen Don “Dean” McKown, of Canton, IL lived in Alaska he used to enjoy the outdoors and fish a lot, so he was pretty excited to find out his dream to go out for a f ishing picnic
was happening. As he sat along the shore with the nurses, he told stories about how he met his wife, memories of his life as a lawyer, as a banker, and told a few tales of his adventures in Alaska. He laughed a lot and really enjoyed the special outing.
A Fine Day for Fishing
Bob Gosch, 86, spent some of the happiest days of his life at Mathews Bay. For more than 40 years, Gosch and his family fished, swam and relaxed together at their cabin on the water.
When his four children were grown, they
brought their own families to the cabin. Later, when g r e a t - g r a n d c h i l d r e n arrived, Gosch’s son bought the cabin next door so the growing family could enjoy even more of the area.The cabin was the
family’s second home, but by the time Gosch was in his 80s, age and disease made visits less and less frequent. Now a hospice patient, it’d been more than three years since the family was together at the Bay.
When Gosch’s caregivers at Passages Hospice asked
him what was left on his bucket list, he said he wanted to spend one more day at his cabin. So non-profit wish granting organization Hospice Dreams stepped in to grant Gosch’s Dream. Recently, about 35 family members gathered to fish, swim and enjoy each other’s company
at the cabin like so many summer days gone by. A picnic lunch and success at fishing rounded out the celebration.“I haven’t seen him smile like this in so long,” said Judy Coker, Gosch’s daughter. “It’s great to see him so happy.”
Col�s of Hope
Cabin by the Lake
Col�s of Hope
The play was held at Veterans Memorial Hall in Rockford, IL
At left, Hospice Dreams staff attended the Colors of Hope play (L-R): Ricki, Kaitlyn, Kristen, Cooper, and Kansas
R ockford playwright Andrew Mahan presented his musical drama, Colors of Hope, as a
fundraiser for Hospice Dreams.
Colors of Hope is a musical drama that follows the journeys of five cancer patients and their families. Inspired by Mahan’s personal experiences with losing loved ones to cancer, Colors of Hope is a tribute to finding laughter amidst sadness and the importance of living every day to the fullest.
Hospice Dreams staff were on hand to meet with attendees and help with ticket sales, as well as attend the show. “It was an inspiring play, Andrew and the rest of the actors in Colors of Hope were really talented,” said Kristine.
“Colors of Hope” was dedicated to Andrew’s friends and family members who lost their battle with cancer: Anne Humphreys, Cheryl English, Liz Hopkins, Pat Mims, Maryland Williams, Dawn Pritz, Katie Jo Sanderson, Bob, Chris, and Deanna Heineman.
Andrew chose to donate all proceeds from the performances to Hospice Dreams. “I can’t think of a better organization. What you do to help those with cancer and other diseases is incredible,” Andrew said.
“Colors of Hope” raised more than $1,500 to make Dreams come true!
Colors of Hope was written and produced by Andrew Mahan
A group of actors in Rockford honored the cancer journeys of family and friends in “Colors of Hope” on July 15th.
At Right: Andrew presents Hospice Dreams with a painting that appeared in his play, Colors of Hope. From left: Andrew, Kaitlyn, Kristine 23
Dreams are Ageless 24Dreams are Ageless24
Here are a few nice cards and posts we saw this
month. If you would like to contribute, send us your
letters, post on our Facebook wall, or comment to us
on Twitter and you might be featured!
Send us your snail mail to: Hospice DreamsAttn: Dream Letters Department511 E. North StreetBradley, IL 60915
Letters
Dreams are Ageless24
Follow us on twitter! @hospicedreamsUse the hashtag #hospicedreams
send us your comments on Facebook!
Hi Kristen,I spoke to my dad yesterday and he happily told me all
about his wonderful trip to the museum and restaurant.
He also told me about how people at the museum were
staring at him and he wondered why. Then he realized
that they must have been looking at him thinking that he
must be a famous artist because he was wearing a beret.
Thank you so much for giving my dad this opportunity.
I am so grateful for your organization and for passages.
My dad is truly surrounded by angels! Thank you for the pictures. I’ll just save them to my
computer.Julia
Send us your snail mail to: Hospice DreamsAttn: Dream Letters Department511 E. North StreetBradley, IL 60915
Dreams are Ageless 25
General Fund Donations:
Kraft Foods
Kristy Kokenes-Mau
Chad Ulitzsch
In Memory of Ike Beard
Arvilla Siddens
Steve and Marjie Lundquist
John Beard
In Memory of John BrownMelvin and Lou Ann Eggemeyer
In Memory of William Bryant Jr.Steven and Brenda Bryant
In Memory of Angelo Calvello
Rita Loew
Michael and Susan Frank
Elinore Davis
Barton and Laura Mann
In Memory of Rita ConroyMargaret Hanson
In Memory of Shirley Conway
John Conway
In Memory of Jim DeTolveJames and Donna Duffy
In Memory of Mary Dippel
Thomas and Frances Vaughn
Illinois Knights Templar
In Memory of Raymond DombkowskiMeghan Mastellone
Don and Katherine Miske
In Memory of Margaret Ferguson
Lynmoore and Elaine Haynes
A.Joseph and Debra Judd
In Memory of Frank FogelIrene Fogel
In Memory of Elizabeth “Betty” Krieg
Narcisco and Betti Jo Puentes
Jerry and Louise Ferguson
John and Pamela Russell
H. and B. Schumacher
Sharon Harrison
Yvonne Schmidt
Elizabeth Potts
Penelope Johns
Valerie Detweiler
Joann SheridanMichael and Linda Burgess
In Memory of Anna KwiatekWerner and Kathleen Diehl
In Memory of Josephine LobueThomas and Jacqueline Duffy
In Memory of Colleen Lange
Geroge Lordi
Carol Smith
In Memory of Kenneth LowsAlvin and Gaye Bettis
In Memory of Nance MeyersJerry and Irene Miakush
In Memory of Helen Reese
Rick Taylor
Richard and Matha Neal
Ruby Horntrop
Angelito and Deanna Tacderas
Tom and Nancy Heil
In Memory of Doris SchmidtRichard Vanderveen
In Memory of George SchneiderRussell and Deborah Anderson
In Memory of Lloyd ScottJesse and Christine Gingras
In Memory of Charles J. Stern
Douglas Stern
Geraldine Wike
Waldo and Joyce Spencer
In Honor of Barbara Stygar
Judith Hubrich
In Memory of Anna Thorson
Stan Thorson
Edgar and Mary Ross
Kathy Arthur
In Memory of Judith VanceRenee Rodaszewski
In Memory of Craig WolffKathy Beaulieu
In Memory of Kelly Zimmerman
Richard and Kimberly Bell
Lisa Reinmann
Jay Pfister
Walter and Sharon Fogle
Mike and Barb Lay
Carlton and Jo Gazelle
Robert and Lisa Medved
Richard and Betty Brandt
Sandy Snow
James and Kathryn Campbell
Doublas and Tracy Baker
Ray and Pat Reeser
Bonnie Twyman
Elmer Gray
Angela Griffin
William and Charlotte Troyer
Darrell and Sarah Newhauser
Ronald and Marilyn Rebmann
H. James and Ann Perry
David and Georgia Kaps
Merle and Betty Martens
Kathy Kidwell
Walter and Mary Schwind
David and Stacy Leman
Jamie and Lisa Leipold
Jack and Kimberly Matlock
Christine Bator
Thank you for your donations.
Dreams in the NewsJames at Great America
-on WBBM
-the Peoria Journal Star
-on ABC 7
Michael meets Ted Nugent - on WEEK 25
Jo sees the Cardinals - the Alton Telegraph
Adolf and Merle make the front pageDreams are Ageless26
Hospice Dreams relies on the generous donations of our sponsors and individual donors. Every dollar donated helps someone to achieve their Dream. Please visit our website to donate today!
Every dollar donated helps Hospice Dreams continue granting dreams to hospice patients. Though they come in many shapes and sizes all Dreams share the bond of bringing a bit of joy during a difficult time. Hospice Dreams is dedicated to the human spirit — helping people and their families on a journey that many have never faced before. With the help of our generous donors, Hospice Dreams provides a last opportunity for individuals and their families to the experience the wonder life can bring and create everlasting memories.
Hospice Dreams is a non-profit wish granting organization dedicated to fulfilling unmet wishes, decreasing stress and improving quality of life for adult hospice patients.
There are many ways to give:
• Individual donations
• Donation of a virtual quilt patch
• Donations in honor of/in memory of an individual
• Services, gift cards, or tickets to help grant a dream
• Planned Giving
• Corporate Donations
• Sponsorship
Hospice Dreams is a registered 501(c)3 charity and your donations are tax-deductible.
Give an ex-pilot their wings back for one more flight...help a fan go to a concert to hear their favorite band ... or send someone to a dinner with their family at a special restaurant ...
www.HospiceDreams.org
Dreams are Ageless
Create a Dream Quilt patch in the memory of your loved one today and help make future dreams a reality....
Help others to live their Dream with your donation of a Dreams quilt patch. �e Dreams quilt is a virtual online quilt that is �lled with the memories families and friends have shared about a loved one. With a small donation you can personalize a quilt patch in one of two sizes and with a design of your choice. �e quilt is always available to view and share on the Hospice Dreams website. Your donation of a quilt patch goes directly towards ful�lling Dreams through Hospice Dreams. Keep your memories alive by adding to our Dreams quilt today. To create your own quilt patch in memory of a loved one, or for other ways to donate to help someone’s Dream come true, just visit our website today.
www.HospiceDreams.orgAs a 501(c)3 charitable organization, Hospice Dreams gives hospice patients the opportunity to live out a dream—a �nal
adventure — where they can spend a joy-�lled day with loved ones creating memories of living.
Create a Dream Quilt patch in the memory of your loved one today and help make future dreams a reality....
Help others to live their Dream with your donation of a Dreams quilt patch. �e Dreams quilt is a virtual online quilt that is �lled with the memories families and friends have shared about a loved one. With a small donation you can personalize a quilt patch in one of two sizes and with a design of your choice. �e quilt is always available to view and share on the Hospice Dreams website. Your donation of a quilt patch goes directly towards ful�lling Dreams through Hospice Dreams. Keep your memories alive by adding to our Dreams quilt today. To create your own quilt patch in memory of a loved one, or for other ways to donate to help someone’s Dream come true, just visit our website today.
www.HospiceDreams.orgAs a 501(c)3 charitable organization, Hospice Dreams gives hospice patients the opportunity to live out a dream—a �nal
adventure — where they can spend a joy-�lled day with loved ones creating memories of living.
Dreams are Ageless 29
Hospice Dreams StaffKansas SwainTitle: Director of Foundation Development
Kristine BorczPR Coordinator
Christy CooperPR and Development Coordinator
Kami FreelandPR and Development Coordinator
Kaitlyn HendersonMedia and Communications Manager
Kristen KolwelterDreams Manager
Ricki KravatOffice Manager
Board of DirectorsStacy Barclay
Jerry HenkeMarilyn RoyAlicia Stone
Dreams is a quarterly newsletter that documents the stories behind the Dreams that are granted through Hospice Dreams. Hospice Dreams is a registered 501(c)3 charity that provides adult hospice patients with an opprotunity to live their dream. We rely solely on the donations of individuals and sponsors to provide these Dreams.
If you know of someone who has a dream please click on the “I have a Dream” button found on the top of our website for information as well as the application form. If you have further questions don’t hesitate to email us at: [email protected].
Editors: Kansas SwainKaitlyn Henderson
Art Direction:Kristine Borcz
Article Authors:Kristine BorczKaitlyn Henderson
Photography:Staff photographers supplied all photos in this newsletter unless otherwise specified.
All photographs of Dreams are the property of Hospice Dreams and may not be reproduced without permission. Contact [email protected] for permission or questions.
This issue of Dreams was made available to the public on July 27th through Issuu.
www.HospiceDreams.org
Use GoodSearch when you search the internet – they will donate a penny to us every time you do. We are listed as “Hospice Dreams.”
