Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: April 17, 2013
CONTACT: Roxanne Debski-Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: John Drinkard served as a US Marine Corps Helicopter Pilot from 1967-1973 and served his tour of duty in Vietnam. Today he practices the art of healing through Soldier’s Heart retreats that concentrate on the wounded soul and heart of the soldier coming home from the war experience. John is the New Jersey contact for Soldier’s Heart and can be reached at jvdrinkard3@verizon.net.

Welcome Home retreat for Veterans scheduled for May 4th

Newton, NJ – April 17, 2013 – Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice is conducting a one day retreat for Veterans and their spouses or partners on Saturday May 4th, from 10-5 pm. It will be held at the Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center, 61 Spring St, 1st floor, Newton, NJ (Use the Trinity Street metered parking lot and lower entrance).

The concept of the retreat is based on Soldier’s Heart, developed by Edward Tick, Ph.D. and Kate Dahlstedt, LMHC. Its goal is to provide a forum to address the emotional, moral, and spiritual wounds of veterans, their families and communities.

The mission is open to both those returning from current wars and to those who fought in past wars. Vietnam Marine Corps veteran John Drinkard will serve as facilitator and has experience in these retreats which provide veterans, family members, professionals and all who care an opportunity to learn practical ways of integrating healing strategies into relationships and practices.

Pre-registration is requested by May 1st. If you would like more information or to pre-register, call 973-383-0115 or 800-882-1117 or email Karen Ann Quinlan Director of Social Services Marlina Schetting at mschetting@karenannquinlanhospice.org. A $20.00 donation is requested and includes lunch; also please remember to bring a memento of your military experience to introduce yourself. A memento would be a picture, dog tags, a hat, or anything from the time you served. If you would like more information on Soldier’s Heart, visit their website www.soldiersheart.net.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill and Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice is an independently owned hospice program. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: April 15, 2013
CONTACT: Roxanne Debski-Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: The Lake Mohawk Country Club will be the setting of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice “Celebrate Every Moment of Life” Spring Gala on the evening of April 27th.

PHOTO: Roxanne Evans; Emmy Award-winning journalist and News 12 New Jersey’s Evening News Anchor and Environmental Host /Reporter will appear as speaker and emcee.

Celebrate Every Moment of Life Spring Gala to Help Build Home for Hospice

Newton, NJ – April 15, 2013 – The Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice “Celebrate Every Moment of Life” Spring Gala is around the corner. On April 27th, supporters and friends of hospice will enjoy dining and dancing while raising money and resources to benefit the new Home for Hospice to be built in Fredon. On March 26th of this year, the hospice broke ground on nine acres adjacent to the Waterwheel Farm to construct a 10 room residence for terminally ill patients who need care and can no longer remain in their own home. The non-profit hospice is committed to providing a full circle of care for hospice patients by the construction of this home and they need the help of the community. Your attendance at this event will encourage the project and also be an evening well spent at the beautiful Lake Mohawk Country Club on the boardwalk in Lake Mohawk, Sparta, NJ.

Julia Quinlan explained, “This is an exciting time for hospice as we look forward to the future and remember the past. We cherish the life of every patient that we lovingly cared for; as we continue our journey we are grateful for the opportunity to fulfill our commitment and dedication to the patient, family and the community.”

Presenting the event will be Emmy Award-winning journalist and News 12 New Jersey’s Evening News Anchor and Environmental Host / Reporter Roxanne Evans. Roxanne has worked in major markets at top broadcast stations around the country. Her journalism experience extends well beyond the anchor desk, having reported extensively on major news stories and events. Some of those stories range from high-profile trials and nationally known missing children cases to hard-fought political campaigns and live coverage of natural disasters. The work and stories that Roxanne finds the most gratifying have dealt with protecting consumers like you from corrupt business owners and unscrupulous con-artists looking to profit off the less fortunate. The mission of hospice and the home for hospice is a cause she encourages by sharing her talents and time to the event. Evans works to deliver a newscast her viewers can use and hopes to make a difference in each person’s day.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour at 6pm and the Gala will feature music by Silvermoon Music. The members of Silvermoon Music have over 30 years of experience in the music industry, ranging from television sound tracks and international touring, to studio recordings and private events. A Silent Auction by RSI Fundraising will display and have ready to purchase and take home numerous items with something for everyone. Sussex County Technical School’s Horticulture class will create the evening’s floral centerpieces.

Tickets are only $125.00 per person and if you are interested in more information or would like to reserve tickets please call Jennifer Smith or Dr. Roxanne Seigel at 973-383-0115 or email jsmith@karenannquinlanhospice.org. You may also visit the hospice website at www.karenannquinlanhospice.org for sponsorship forms.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill and Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice is an independently owned hospice program. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: April 4, 2013
CONTACT: Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Social Worker Jacqui Gieske, MSW, LSW, holds the packet that will be distributed on Health Care Decisions Day at the Hospice offices, 99 Sparta Ave, Newton, and 104 Bennett Ave, Suite 2A-2 in Milford, and at Newton Medical Center. To reach either office of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, call 800-882-1117 for more information.

National Health Care Decisions Day is Tuesday
April 16th.

Newton, NJ – April 4, 2013 – As National Healthcare Decisions Day approaches (Tuesday, April 16), the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization stresses the importance of patients and families talking frankly about the care they would or would not want if ever faced with a serious medical condition or life-limiting illness.

The living will or as it is also known, advance directives stemmed from the Karen Ann Quinlan case of 1976. In 1975, New Jersey woman, Karen Ann fell inexplicably into a coma resulting with a prognosis of no hope for recovery. The Quinlans, Julia and Joseph, in order to have their daughter Karen Ann released from extraordinary means of life support, took their battle to the NJ Supreme court and won the case. But it was a case won for all of us, as it paved the way for our right to die with dignity, and to live our lives unfettered by extreme medical treatments if that was our choice.

A study by The Dartmouth Institute found that many physicians feel compelled to treat terminal illnesses aggressively resulting in patients dying in the hospital. Given that the majority of Americans would prefer to be at home at the end of life raises concerns that Americans may be getting more invasive care at life’s end than is desired, resulting in diminished quality of life. It is that quality of end of life that can be decided in advance with a living will.

NHPCO, along with other national, state, and community organizations, is raising awareness of the importance of advance healthcare decision making. This includes completing an advance directive (also known as a living will) and appointing a healthcare power of attorney (someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to speak for yourself). However, equally important are the conversations with family and loved ones about healthcare preferences and choices.

You can begin by asking yourself these basic questions: On a scale of 1 to 5, with #1 being “Let me die without medical intervention to #5, “Don’t give up on me no matter what…try anything, proven or unproven.” Where would you fall?

It would be reasonable to say that most of us fall somewhere in the middle. “I would like some medical intervention such as pain relief but not kept alive through extraordinary means such as a respirator.”

Then choose from the following: I would prefer to die… (a) In a hospital (b) skilled institution (c) at home (d) I’m not sure

Answer Yes or No below:

• Could a loved one correctly describe how you’d like to be treated in the case of a terminal illness?
• Is there someone you trust whom you’ve appointed to advocate on your behalf when the time is near?
• Have you completed any of the following: written a living will, appointed a healthcare power of attorney, or completed an advanced directive?

Once you have established your preferences, it is important to have the discussion with your loved ones so if and when that time comes, your family will have benefited knowing how to proceed to make sure you are given the care you wished for at life’s end. For families who have not “had the conversation”, it is very challenging for them to be assured they are making the right decisions on your behalf.

Thinking about what would be important to you in a medical crisis and making your wishes known to loved ones is what National Healthcare Decisions Day is all about – regardless of age or health status.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has made available packets to the community every year on this day since its national inception in 2008. To pick up a 2013 packet you may visit either the NJ office located at located at 99 Sparta Ave in Newton or their PA office at 104 Bennett Ave, Suite 2A-2 in Milford between the hours of 9-4pm. To reach either office you may call 800-882-1117.

This year a representative from the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice will be at Newton Medical Center from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on April 16th with informational packets available on Advance Directives and Hospice.

For more information about National Healthcare Decision Day, please visit www.nationalhealthcaredecisionsday.org or the NHPCO’s Caring Connections, www.CaringInfo.org; a trusted source of information and tools regarding advance care planning and talking with physicians and loved ones; state-specific advance directive forms are also available for download free of charge

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has been dedicated to providing optimum hospice care to patients and their families for over 30 years and serves Northwest NJ and Northeast PA, with two offices: 99 Sparta Ave Newton, NJ 07860 and 104 Bennett Avenue Suite2A-2 Milford, PA 18337. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center is part of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and provides bereavement services to patient’s families as well as to the community with two office locations; the main office is located at 61 Spring Street Lower Level Suite 100 Newton, NJ 07860 with a second location at 214 Washington Street Hackettstown, NJ 07840. The bereavement center also holds grief support groups and programs in Pike County, PA. For locations or more information on any of the above services visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org or call at 800-882-1117.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: March 27, 2013
CONTACT: Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Groundbreaking for the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice was held on the site of the project in Fredon, NJ on March 26, 2013. The ten in-patient room facility will be built on 9 acres adjacent to the Waterwheel Farm, hopefully completed by spring 2014. Pictured in sharing the event L to R is Sussex County Freeholder Richard Vohden, 5th district representative Congressman Scott Garrett, Sussex County Chamber President Tammie Horsfield, state Senator Steve Oroho, Willard Klemm, owner of Waterwheel Farm, Fredon Mayor Carl Lazzaro, Julia Quinlan, Co-Founder of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, Assemblywoman Alison-Little McHose, Mary Ellen Quinlan, daughter of Julia Quinlan and sister of Karen Ann, and Cecelia Clayton, Executive Director of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice.

PHOTO: Julia Quinlan, Co-Founder of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice speaks to the audience of supporters for the building of the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice

Groundbreaking for the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice

Newton, NJ – March 27, 2013 – Mrs. Julia Quinlan, co-founder of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice spoke with great emotion on the journey that brought her to witness the groundbreaking of the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice. Mrs. Quinlan expressed “it is an important day in the history of the (Karen Ann Quinlan) Hospice”… “We were the first hospice in this county and now our hospice will be the first to build a home for hospice patients” she continued. The groundbreaking was held March 26th in Fredon, NJ on the Fairview Hill Rd. site of the future facility complete with shovels and hard hats ready to go! Hospice’s Executive Director Cecelia Clayton opened the ceremony by thanking all those who have supported hospice and the new home. She continued by thanking the hospice staff and the Quinlans for turning their dream and vision into reality.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice opened in 1980 and was named after the Quinlans daughter, Karen Ann who in 1975 at the age of 21 inexplicably lapsed into a coma which put her in a diagnosed persistent vegetative state of which there was no hope of recovery. It was the lawsuit that followed requesting to have Karen Ann removed from the respirator which brought worldwide attention to the plight of the young woman. At that time the Quinlans and their case became the spokespeople for the right to die with dignity and the catalyst for the ever increasingly important global conversation that trailed. In America, the case was the thrust that now requires all medical institutions to assemble medical ethics boards and also the impetus for living wills and advance directives. Karen Ann lived for almost a decade after she was removed from the respirator and died in 1985.

…But hospice is about life and she (Karen Ann) will always be with us Mrs. Quinlan pointed out as she spoke about the new project. “It is not just a building; it is surrounded by trees and nature with a beautiful view”. The 5 million dollar home to be built on property adjacent to the Waterwheel Farm will be a home hospice patients can call their own during their final days according to Mrs. Quinlan.

Mrs. Quinlan’s dream is shared by her two children Mary Ellen and John who have been serving with the foundation since it was founded by their mother and father, the late Joseph Quinlan and represented the family at the groundbreaking. Willard and Jeanette Klemm, owners of the Fredon Waterwheel farm and longtime friends of hospice, also shared the Quinlans’ vision which led them to parting with a portion of the farm grounds that will accommodate the facility and has been purported as having the best view in Sussex County. “This is God’s picture”… a silent prayer for those facing end of life, Senator Steve Oroho stated in speaking to the group.

Congressman Scott Garrett reminded the audience that our “final days are so precious” and he saluted all those who worked to make this possible. He spoke from personal experience the profound effect it (hospice care) can have on the individual and family. Assemblywoman Alison Littell- McHose concluded by sharing with the audience “Julia (Quinlan) you are an inspiration to me!”

The regional residence will have ten private patient rooms, a kitchen, family room, gathering room, meditation room, a children’s area, and various sitting rooms, all with unlimited family access. The home is designed for short term patient care or as a patient’s residence which will include pain control and management of acute and severe clinical problems and symptoms that cannot be achieved in a home setting. The facility will also provide patient respite care to give families and caregivers an opportunity for “breathers”.

The capital campaign is still in need of 3.5 million dollars to complete the project. For anyone who would like more information as to how they can contribute, please contact Glenn Lewis, Director of Development at 973-383-0115 or email glewis@karenannquinlanhospice.org.
To help raise funds for the new home, the hospice is holding a Spring Gala on April 27th at the Lake Mohawk Country Club in Sparta. Tickets and sponsorships are still available so please contact events manager Jennifer Smith at 973-383-0115 or email jsmith@karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Donations to the cause of hospice, the home, or memorials may also be made by visiting the website.

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has been dedicated to providing optimum hospice care to patients and their families for over 30 years and serves Northwest NJ and Northeast PA, with two offices: 99 Sparta Ave Newton, NJ 07860 and 104 Bennett Avenue Suite2A-2 Milford, PA 18337. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center is part of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and provides bereavement services to patient’s families as well as to the community with two office locations; the main office is located at 61 Spring Street Lower Level Suite 100 Newton, NJ 07860 with a second location at 214 Washington Street Hackettstown, NJ 07840. The bereavement center also holds grief support groups and programs in Pike County, PA. For locations or more information on any of the above services visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org or call at 800-882-1117.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: December 18, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Sparta Dental Designs teams up for Dental Day for Hospice. Pictured (L to R), staff members Elaine Raffino and Kate Baksa, standing with Dr. Edward Tirpack and Dr. Seth Perlmutter. Sparta Dental Designs is located at 16 Lafayette Road Sparta, New Jersey and have been serving patients in that location for over 7 years. All of the staff members were provided special Dental Day for Hospice team shirts from Sparta Dental Designs featuring the hospice’s butterfly signature, while the Friends of Hospice supplied goodies for patients and staff to share. For more information on Sparta Dental Designs you may call them at 973-729-2113 or visit their website: http://www.spartadentaldesigns.com/.

Sparta Dental Designs completed its 16th year of Dental Day for Hospice

Newton NJ – December 18, 2012 – Dr. Edward Tirpack, DMD, MAGD and Dr. Seth Perlmutter, DMD along with their staff contributed their time and fees earned from their patient services to benefit Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice this past Monday, December 17th. The annual event is normally scheduled for the beginning of November, but with hurricane Sandy it was postponed. Dr. Tirpack and his wife Laura are the driving force for Dental day for Hospice and over the years have assisted to assure the future growth of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice by raising over $70,000. “Dr. Ed epitomizes the definition of Community Service.” Julia Quinlan, Co-founder of the hospice stated.

Routine dental services as well as fillings, and even a root canal were all part of this year’s fees donated to hospice. Dr. Tirpack remarked “it has been an honor and privilege to be part of the hospice organization and to have helped in sustaining its mission. Now with the new in-patient unit on the horizon, this much needed facility will make available complete hospice care in Sussex County and surrounding communities.” Dr. Tirpack also serves as a board member on the Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation Board.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Centers, 61 Spring St., Newton NJ and 214 Washington St., Hackettstown, NJ. For programs, events, support groups and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: November 19, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Hospice Heroes

Hospice heroes were found everywhere in a storm that surpassed worst expectations

Newton, NJ – November 19, 2012 – Those who work for hospice live everyday with the mantra that every moment of life is precious, but as Hurricane Sandy roared through our area, it brought all of us a little closer to that experience. We all felt a bit more fragile during such a storm, but imagine if you can, sitting bedside with a loved one who is dying. That by itself is sad and frightening without having to face the urgency of basic survival of keeping warm and staying out of harm’s way. There were patients who were on oxygen or were in need of medication; those families needed the support and guidance from their hospice team.

At the very worst of the storm, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and its nursing staff needed to get to those patients and their families, but with fallen trees and wires down, it was treacherous and risky. The Sussex County Sheriff’s department immediately stepped up and escorted any hospice nurse who needed to get to a patient’s home, and held that offer open. Patients, nurses, and families thanked them for making sure they received the care they needed.

“The nurses worked tirelessly putting their own safety at risk as well as their needs to make sure we did the right thing by our patients; insuring their patients had enough oxygen, meds, and warmth.” Beth Sylvester, Karen Ann Quinlan Nursing Supervisor. With the gas shortages and lines, the office staff remained on stand-by to use their own vehicle if necessary to escort a nurse to a patient’s home. Executive Director Cecelia Clayton was among those who manned the office the day after the storm, assuring patients and families we would “weather this” with them and they were not alone.

Our local medical facilities, Newton Medical Center and St Luke’s in Warren County, along with medical supplier AtHome Medical also deserve accolades for all their backing during this time.

In Pike County, PA, the local heroes of hospice were the Milford Fire Department. One of the hospice social workers at the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Milford office contacted them in need of generators, and they delivered them the very day after the storm.

Realizing the devastation in New Jersey, aid came from all over the country; Calvert Hospice, located in Prince Frederick, Maryland wanted to help so they decided to “adopt” a New Jersey Hospice and send up needed supplies. They chose Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice as they thought much of the help was being focused on Southern Jersey, and wanted to reach out where there was less attention being asserted. “When their Director of Development, Linda Gottfried contacted me and explained their mission, it was truly heartwarming”.- Roxanne Seigel, Director of Marketing and Advancement, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. Seigel continued “I immediately went to our department heads to find out what was needed to bring comfort to our patients and their families”.

The Calvert Hospice arranged to have delivered blankets, gas and kerosene cans, batteries, flashlights, gloves, hand warmers, and small toiletries, all donated by their staff with a message; “Dear Sister Hospice, you are in our thoughts and prayers”.

For most of us life is returning to normal, but there is still the devastation around us and on the news; infrastructures destroyed, debris piles that were once homes, and just the loss of security, the thoughts of what if that tree had fallen and can it or will it happen again? What will I do differently to prepare is top of the mind for many.

For those who are grieving the loss of a spouse or loved one, it may be more complicated, for it is the first time dealing with a crisis without their loved one. This also brings to the surface feelings of being alone and isolation. For others, they feel that they have had to “put their grief away” in order to cope with their immediate needs (water, heat, food). At the Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement center, their Monday night support group had a record number of people in attendance with many of new faces. “The hurricane was a big topic at the beginning of the meeting.” Diana Sebzda, Director of Bereavement pointed out. If you would like to join one of the support groups, visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org and click onto bereavement for the days and times of support groups closest to you. The bereavement center offers group counseling in Sussex and Warren Counties, NJ and in Pike County, PA.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Centers, 61 Spring St., Newton NJ and 214 Washington St., Hackettstown, NJ. For programs, events, support groups and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: November 19, 2012
CONTACT: Jennifer Smith, Special Events Manager
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: jsmith@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Holiday Concert

Somers Dream Orchestra Presents: The Big Band Holiday Concert – The Tradition Continues

Newton, NJ – November 19, 2012 – The Performing Arts Center at Sussex County Community College (SCCC) will be the venue for the Somers Dream Orchestra’s The Big Band Holiday – The Tradition Continues on Saturday, December 8th at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 9th at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through the SCCC Box Office at 973-300-3171 or www.sussex.edu. Proceeds from this concert will benefit Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and the SCCC Foundation.

Guests attending The Big Band Holiday Concert will be swept away on a holiday musical tour featuring The Somers Dream Orchestra led by John Somers, and highlighted by vocal sensation, Keaton Douglas. Somers Dream Orchestra, is a high-energy 18-piece Big Band from New Jersey, and blends the talents of their professional musicians with those of local student choral groups. Featured at this year’s performances will be choirs from Wallkill Valley Regional High School, Saturday at the 2p.m. show; Newton High School, at the 7p.m. show and the Halsted Middle School on Sunday at the 3p.m. show….plus other holiday surprises.

Entertaining and having FUN with music is the message the Somers Dream Orchestra proudly delivers at every performance! The orchestra was “born” in 1995; the dream of its leader, trumpeter, and founder, John M. Somers of Matawan, NJ. John handpicked all the musicians based on three criteria: personality, musicianship and their love for music! The musicians were then asked to purchase their respective seats from the Parent Corporation, T.G. Entertainment, Ltd. making this orchestra possibly the only corporately owned Big Band in the nation! Somers Dream Orchestra was catapulted to national prominence by their critically acclaimed CD, “A Mid-Somers Night Dream,” where the orchestra performs the best of classic and contemporary swing in their own inimitable fresh and exciting style!

“This year’s Big Band Holiday Concert represents the 21st annual Holiday Traditions event in this area and our partnership with Sussex County Community College is a perfect way to bring the community together in celebration with festive music and to kick-off the joyful season,” stated Dr. Roxanne Debski-Seigel, Director of Marketing and Advancement for Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation. For the fifth year The New Jersey Herald is at the helm as the major event sponsor, additional sponsorship support provided by Lakeland Bank.

The proceeds from this annual event are divided equally between Hospice and the SCCC Foundation. The SCCC Foundation proceeds support student scholarships. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice will utilize event proceeds to support the future of hospice and be used to help build the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice – the next project to assist hospice families and their loved ones. The home is to be built on 9+ acres in Fredon that displays magnificent views and will provide a complete continuum of hospice care in a serene pastoral surrounding with a homelike atmosphere.

Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill and Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones. Serving North and Northwest NJ and the Pike County area PA. The locations are Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Avenue, Suite 2A-2, Milford, PA. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org. To reach the Sussex County Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center located at 61 Spring St, Newton, NJ you may call directly at 973-940-0413. The center is open to anyone who is suffering a loss from the death of a loved one. To reach any of our services, call 800-882-1117.

The Performing Arts Center (PAC) at SCCC opened in 2008 and has become the flagship theater in Northwest New Jersey presenting a diverse showcase of dance, comedy, opera, contemporary and classical music, international and supernatural shows and inspired student performances. Please check their website www.sussex.edu for a complete list of performances or call the SCCC Office of the Foundation at 973-300-2121 and ask to have a season brochure sent to you.

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h1>Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: November 7, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Children sharing their stories with a counselor from the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center.

National Children’s Grief Awareness day is Thursday, November 15th.

Newton, NJ – November 7, 2012 – The Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center in Newton will hold an open house from 9 to 3 p.m. for community and professionals to come visit the center, meet the counselors, and receive some information on how to best support grieving children. Children are often the forgotten mourners when in actuality they need to be heard and supported.

Supporting “Children’s Grief Awareness Day” is a way to bring grieving children who have had a loved one die out of the shadows and feel less isolated. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center will unite with organizations across the nation and along with thousands of adults and children in wearing blue to commemorate the day and call attention to the issue.

The Children’s Grief Awareness Day originated in 2007 in Pennsylvania by the Highmark Caring Place, a Center for Grieving Children, Adolescents and Their Families and is observed every year on the third Thursday of November. This time of year is a particularly appropriate time as the holiday season is especially difficult after a death. Children’s Grief Awareness Day seeks to bring attention to the fact that support can make all the difference in the life of a grieving child.

This day provides an opportunity for all of us to raise awareness of the painful impact that the death of a loved one has in the life of a child and an opportunity for all of us to recognize and support the millions of grieving children across the nation, the thousands of grieving children right in our own communities, and the grieving children we know and see in our daily lives. Help us make sure that these children receive the support they need.

The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center at 61 Spring St. Newton plans to pass out blue lollipops to children and adults on this day and will display blue colored balloons outside the center to draw attention and visitors. Prepared “packets” of information for adults on how to support a grieving child will be handed out as well as children’s materials such as coloring books and short story books on the topic. A Children’s Grief Awareness Day Toolkit containing ideas for a range of activities is available free of charge at their webpage: www.childrensgriefawarenessday.org.
Or To Learn More about Children’s Grief Awareness Day:
Visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ChildrensGriefAwarenessDay

Diana Sebzda, MA, LPC, CT, Director of Bereavement, Lorri Opitz, MA, CT, Grief Counselor and Jennifer Smetana, MSW, LSW, Grief Counselor provide emotional support and education about the grief process to adults and children, not only through the hospice programs of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, but to the community as well. One of the center’s hallmark programs is the Children’s Art Bereavement Program which is offered three times a year. The counselors also offer Healing in the Classroom Workshops to school systems throughout the tri-state area which focus on educating school professionals in recognizing grief responses in their students and how best to support these children. The center has a lending library that is also available to the public and professionals in the area with literature on the topic of explaining death and dying to young people.

The Sussex County location of the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center is located at 61 Spring Street, Suite 100 Newton and is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 to 4:30. For more information about our services, please call 973-940-0413 or visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: August 20, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: USDA Rural Development State Director Howard Henderson announces to the audience at the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Administrative office located in Newton they will receive $2,300,000 through the Community Facilities program to construct a 10 bed hospice care inpatient facility, the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice.

PHOTO: (pictured left to right) Julia Quinlan, co-founder and president of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, welcomes USDA Rural Development State Director Howard Henderson and NJ Assemblywoman Alison McHose for the announcement of the USDA federal funding support for the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice scheduled to be completed in 2013.

Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation Receives USDA Support For Hospice Facility

Mt. Lauren, NJ – August 20, 2012 – USDA Rural Development State Director Howard Henderson announces Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation in Sussex County will receive $2,300,000 through the Community Facilities program to construct a 10 bed hospice care inpatient facility. The State Director made the announcement during his visit to the Foundation.

The facility will provide hospice general inpatient care to residents in Sussex and Warren Counties in New Jersey as well as Pike County in Pennsylvania. This will be the region’s first free standing in-patient hospice home and is expected to be completed in 2013. Julia Quinlan, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice co-founder and mother of Karen Ann was on-hand to share her enthusiasm and gratitude for their support as well as the support the hospice has received from the community for this project.

“This project represents continuing efforts by the Obama Administration to help create jobs while helping families in rural communities,” Henderson said. “Since 2009, our agency has invested over $850 million in loans and grants throughout the Garden State.”

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages more than 40 housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Centers, 61 Spring St., Newton NJ and 214 Washington St., Hackettstown, NJ. For programs, events, support groups and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: September 11, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Cathy Shane, RN, BSN, Director of Nursing Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care

Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care Director of Nursing appointed to State Committee

Newton NJ – September 11, 2012 – Cathy Shane, RN, BSN, and Director of Nursing for Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care has been appointed on behalf of the Home Care Association of NJ to the Infection Control Work Group and the Home Health Aide Committee for the term of 7/1/12-6/30/13. As part of this state role, the committee gathers those with expertise to share and exchange what is needed in the field to provide the training and care for patients as they recover at home.

Shane’s background with home health care is intensive and she has worked in the field as a home care nursing specialist since 1982. “Home care and those who work in the field are life-lines for so many people”, Shane pointed out. Prior to home care nursing, Cathy has been working as an RN since 1976.

Home Health care is a valuable resource for patients especially as hospitals decrease their lengths of stays for recovering patients. Cathy spoke to the ever increasing government regulations that seem to be overburdening the home health care industry just at a time when it has made such positive progress in treating and caring for the home patient.

Infections cross all lines of the demographic and the standardized practices of the home health aides are critical. Home health aides are now certified, with new teachable practices always in the mix. Cathy acknowledged “the home health aide is a valuable and significant part of the home health team, they are out there every day with the patients; they are the front line”. “We want to keep moving in the right direction and this happens when home health aide programs appear at local college levels” she continued. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice also offers certified training courses for home health aides. To find out when these programs are held, call 800-882-1117 and ask for the clinical educational nurse, or email clinical@karenannquinlanhospice.org.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Centers, 61 Spring St., Newton NJ and 214 Washington St., Hackettstown, NJ. For programs, events, support groups and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: August 7, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Diana Sebzda, Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center Director explains to the attendees of the Biggs Kids Foundation Golf Outing held Monday, August 6th at the Lake Mohawk Golf Club how grieving children are helped with their art programs. The Bereavement center, located at 61 Spring St, Newton holds children’s grief art programs for any child who is suffering grief through the death of a loved one. Classes are held in the Spring and Fall. Call 973-940-0413 for registration details.

Joseph T. Quinlan Foundation thanks the Biggs Kids Foundation for bereavement donation

Sparta NJ – August 6 – Steve Bieganousky of Sparta, who lost his only child, is no stranger to the pain of grief. His son Steven at the age of 21 died suddenly in a car accident on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2005. ‘A fun-loving and spirited individual, he always enjoyed making people laugh.’ Young Steven strongly believed in standing up for those who could not stand up for themselves, particularly children. To continue Steven’s devotion to helping children, the family founded The Steven P. Bieganousky Foundation for Children, also known as BIGGS’ Kids. The foundation is dedicated to raising funds to benefit less fortunate children and monies are distributed to organizations providing physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of suffering children.

Upon hearing of the work the Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center, especially the children’s art program, Steve wanted to learn more. “I found my professional niche in the world of graphic design and have enjoyed much success, so the children’s grief art program did get my attention.” Bieganousky started his Sparta graphic design company, the SRD Group in 1984, which primarily creates consumer packaging for many Fortune 500 companies and brand directors. “Art is in my blood” he continued, and growing up he was fortunate enough to have discovered his path early and went on to earn an art degree from the University of Bridgeport, CT.

The Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center is an affiliate of the Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation and Hospice, but is open to the community for anyone who is in need of grief support. It is sustained primarily through small grants, donations, the community and the generosity of a foundation such as Biggs Kids. “When a family member is lost though death, children are often the “forgotten” grievers as adult family members are busy picking up the pieces and often don’t understand how children process grief” Diana Sebzda, Director of the Joseph T. Quinlan Center explained to the audience. The Children’s grief art program is unique to the area with Sebzda and her skilled team of counselors constantly developing innovative and playful means to reach children suffering from the death of a parent, grandparent, sibling or any loved one. Many different methods and themes are used to encourage children to unveil their emotions.

Sebzda described a themed board, ‘It’s a Jungle out there’ which let children pick a jungle animal that most describes how they are feeling about the loss of their loved one, while in another room, the parent is asked to do the same. “Parents are amazed to see that their child has expressed their pain very differently from the jungle animal the parent chose.”

Another recent theme was The Seashore and the Waves of Grief where the children were asked to write down one of the many coping strategies they learned in the program that would be helpful to someone else who has lost a loved one and put it in a bottle (message in a bottle) and offer it to that person when the time was right. Sebzda also shared with the audience one case where the children were asked to draw their body outlines and then with the use of colors, draw in where they were experiencing feelings. “One little boy colored in his stomach area with a big blob of red scribbles with blue colors going towards his neck area”. Sebzda continued that because his parent had already made her aware that he was having stomach aches and gagging reflexes after the loss of his loved one, the drawing clearly defined how is grief was manifesting itself. He had stomach pains and felt as though he was choking…from there the counselors were able assist him with coping skills.

When Steve toured the center last month, Diana pointed out how parents have expressed their grief over the loss of a child. Hanging on one of the walls was artwork of a rose, on another a poem. Both of these pieces represented two different avenues the grieving parent acquired to demonstrate their love for their lost child. “Grief and tragedy changes people, and it all depends what you do with it.” Steve pointed out. “I can see now how art has a place in the world of grief.”

The Steven P. Bieganousky Foundation for Children, Inc. 1A Main Street, Suite 2, Sparta, NJ 07871 , 972-222-5948. www.spbfoundation.org holds its annual golf outing every August at the Lake Mohawk Golf Club in Sparta.

“In the future I would like to expand the foundation and include various events during the year to raise funds to help causes such as the Bereavement Center.” Steve noted. The foundation has also supported Ginny’s House and Project Self Sufficiency in Sussex County and has given out $60,000.00 over the span of the foundation.

The Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center offers individual grief counseling and monthly support groups in Newton and Hackettstown, NJ and Milford and Lord’s Valley, PA. To learn more about the Center visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org or call 800-882-1117; the Bereavement Center in Newton (973) 940-0413; Hackettstown (908) 852-8730 or the Milford Hospice, PA (570) 296-3591.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving Northwest NJ and Northeast PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Centers, 61 Spring St., Newton NJ and 214 Washington St., Hackettstown, NJ. For programs, events, support groups and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: June 29, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Lorraine Sciara, award recipient with Julia Quinlan, presenter of the Joseph and Julia Quinlan award.

The 6th Annual Joseph and Julia Quinlan Award presented at Rutgers

Newton NJ –June, 2012 – Julia Quinlan of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice gave the opening greeting at the Rutgers of College of Nursing for the 7th Annual conference of the New Jersey End of Life Nursing Education Consortium (NJ-ELNEC) held in Somerset on June 22nd.

In addition to Mrs. Quinlan greeting all the attendees, she presented the sixth annual Joseph and Julia Quinlan Award to Lorraine Sciara. The Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice began in 1980 and in 1981 The Hospice Inc., which also began as a fledgling community health care provider, began its journey. Today that hospice is known as the Barnabus Health Hospice & Palliative Care Center located in West Orange, NJ.

Under the leadership of Sciara, who took responsibility for the small hospice at a time when there was little public awareness of hospice, the agency grew. Starting with only five employees and five patients, she transformed the agency to a system with over 200 employees, 300 volunteers and an average of 260 patients daily.

The Joseph and Julia Quinlan Award honored her dedication and devotion to the work of hospice which never faltered through the challenging and difficult times many non-profit hospices faced. Lorraine’s keen business instincts and her constant desire to meet the increasing needs of hospice patients and families largely contributed to the successful merger with the Hospice of Morris County and affiliation with The Saint Barnabus Health Care System. She also brought her hospice devotion to the community at large by serving on numerous legislative committees at both the state and federal level.

Lorraine Sciara, RN also held a master’s degree in Public Health and was the recipient of numerous awards honoring her contribution to women, nursing, and hospice.

“For her integrity, compassion, and unending quest for excellence it is a privilege to present Lorraine with the Joseph and Julia Quinlan award for 2012” Julia Quinlan announced.

At the same conference the Quinlan documentary “Saying Goodbye, the Legacy of Karen Ann Quinlan” (Mirage Productions, 2010) was shown and is soon to be released to the public along with extra educational dialogues.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving North and Northwest NJ and the Pike County area PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: June 7, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: (R) Cecelia Clayton, MPH, Executive Director of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice receives applause and smiles from the audience after (L) Stella Hardy, RN, CHPN of Compassionate Care and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for the New Jersey Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, presented Clayton the 2012 Hospice Director of the Year Award at the New Jersey Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s Annual Spirit of Hospice Awards Dinner.

Clayton named Hospice Director of the Year

Eatontown, NJ- June 6th, 2012 – The New Jersey Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the New Jersey Hospice Foundation presented Cecelia T. Clayton of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice with the Hospice Director of the Year award at their 15th annual Spirit of Hospice Awards Dinner held on June 6th at the Sheraton Eatontown.

Clayton has been with the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice for over 20 years and as Executive Director administers over three hospice locations located in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Prior to being appointed Executive Director, Clayton worked in many capacities including Volunteer and Bereavement director. Under those titles she initiated many programs including the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center, a teen grief camp, children’s art grief program, a widow/widower workshop, and a grief lecture series of her own design. With her husband Rich, both avid motorcyclists, she participates in the annual Chilly Chili run sponsored by the Blue Knights chapter IX held every New Year’s Day, and along with the Ogdensburg Fire Department have raised this year alone $11,000.00 for the hospice. Clayton’s leadership in the use of technology for nursing staff led to Thornberry naming her system manager of the year in 2010. Having served as Executive Director of the hospice for the past decade, the agency has quadrupled its patience census. “This award is not about me, but with the people with whom I am surrounded and come to do the work of hospice everyday”. Clayton continued, “I could not accomplish this on my own”.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving North and Northwest NJ and the Pike County area PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: April 25, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115 Toll free 800-882-1117 FAX 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
Website: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Interfaith Memorial Service May 21

Washington, NJ – April 25, 2012. The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center and the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice is pleased to invite you, your family, and friends to participate in a celebration of remembrance. It is a dedication to commemorate loved ones who have died by sharing an evening to evoke their memory, and to gather strength and comfort.

The service will be held at the Washington Alliance Church, Rte. 57, Washington, NJ, Monday, May 21, 2012 at 7:30 pm.

Clergy from the Catholic, Protestant and Jewish faiths, as well as Hospice staff and volunteers, will participate. As part of the service, there will be a candle-lighting ceremony to memorialize loved ones and light refreshments served.

If you are interested in attending and having your loved one included in the memorial bulletin, please contact the Newton office of the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center office at 973-940-0411 and ask Diana Sebzda for more details or call toll free 800-882-1117 and ask for Bereavement. Please reserve your place by calling one of the above numbers or email bereavement@karenannquinlanhospice.org by May 7, 2012. This is a free service open to the community.

Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving North and Northwest NJ and the Pike County area PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 315 West Harford St., Milford, PA. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: April 4, 2012
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
Offices in Newton & Phillipsburg, NJ & Milford PA.
PHONE: 973-383-0115
TOLL FREE: 800-882-1117
FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

National Healthcare Decisions Day, April 16th

Are You Traveling Life’s Road without a Map?

Newton- April 4, 2012 – When one thinks of taking a trip to a place we have never been, the first thing most of us do is plan. Well, advance care planning is like planning a road trip to an unfamiliar destination. “Only 30% of American’s have a living will, a map detailing where they want their healthcare to “go” in the future should they become unable to voice their wishes.” Katherine Brandt, MS, Vice President, Consumer and Caregiver Services, National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.

We have all heard of living wills; a living will outlines your course in advance for your future health care wishes if you were to suddenly become seriously ill or an accident victim. Would you want to have a breathing apparatus in place if there was no hope for recovery; or if you were diagnosed with an incurable life limiting illness, would you want to focus your remaining days, weeks, months in comfort and pain free or an arrangement of life-extending treatments and comfort care? Letting family and health care providers know what procedures and treatments you would want provided to you — and under what conditions is what is mapped out in a living will.

Choose your Back-up Driver legally.

A health care power of attorney or health care proxy designation form in most situations allows you to choose someone you trust to “drive” (take charge of your health care decisions) in case you are unable to make those decisions yourself. Consider a family member or friend you trust and who is unafraid to speak on your behalf as your advocate. When you drive alone and encounter a breakdown, your journey’s decisions could and would most likely be taken by someone who may not know or understand your values and wishes.

“It is important to have your map and your back-up in place to help let others know your intentions…it is kind of like calling ahead.”—Dr. Roxanne Seigel, Director of Marketing and Advancement for the Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation.

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has ready-made packets with current Living Will information available FREE on National Healthcare Decisions Day, April 16th at any of their 3 offices. In NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton and Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg and in PA, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford.

For more information please call 973-383-0115 in NJ and 570-296-3591 in PA and a packet will be mailed to you. Visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org for information on all services and events.

To learn more about advance care planning, including living wills, health care proxy and talking to people about your wishes explore the planning ahead section of www.caringinfo.org or call 800-658-8898. Caring Connections offers FREE, state-specific advance directives for all 50 states and DC that meet the legal requirements for each state. www.caringinfo.org/stateaddownload

Marlina Schetting, MSW, LCSW and Director of Social Services for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice speaks to the need for a living will. Visit NJHerald.com and click on Health Connections.

Visit Dealing with Dying: National Healthcare Decisions Day, a YouTube discussion featuring Cathy Shane, RN and Director of Nursing for the Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care as one of the speakers.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. Serving North and Northwest NJ and the Pike County area PA; please call 800 882 1117 to reach any of our services. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ, Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health Care, 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ and Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 104 Bennett Ave., Milford, PA. For programs, events, and more information visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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