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

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice announces new community project

Newton- April 4, 2012 – Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, a leader in the hospice movement for over thirty years, will once again be “breaking ground” on a new element in end of life care.
This is the first time the 44 minute movie screening is being made available to the public and seats are limited.

The hospice currently serves patients in homes, nursing home facilities, hospitals or wherever a patient calls “home” in two states, NJ & PA; so it was a natural next step to take the lead in providing a hospice home for the area.

The vision behind the creation of the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice is to develop a residence for long or short term care for patients facing end of life when home care is no longer an option for the family. The residence will be staffed with professional medical personnel and assistants and will gain in distinction with the principle that family and friends will have right of entry to their loved ones just as they would in their own homes. For the patients, it will be their “home” where they can be surrounded by their loved ones with all the comforts of a home-like environment. Until now there is no other residency that currently meets those criteria in the immediate area.

This year the Karen Ann Quinlan Charitable Foundation is planning to break ground on 9 acres that has been offered by the Waterwheel Farm in Fredon Township, Sussex County, NJ. The $5 million, 10,000 square foot project will include 10 patient beds, ample space for round-the-clock family visitations,
two sitting rooms, a meditation room and a family kitchen all with a view looking out at the beautiful Kittatinny Ridge Mountains.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice will also provide respite patient duty for the caregiver who needs to take that much-needed break or time off from the seemingly endless days of responsibility and support of their loved one.

“Our hospice home will provide a complete continuum of care in a serene surrounding which will encourage dignity and hope to all its residents.”-Julia Quinlan, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice co-founder, Chairman of The Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice and mother of Karen Ann.

It is estimated that the doors to the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice will open in the spring or summer of 2013. “The Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice is the culmination of many years of working and planning to realize a full service hospice for our fine community. As one of two surviving founding Board members, I am delighted to be here to see this project finally completed.”
– Lucian Fletcher, Jr. MD

Please contact Glenn Lewis, Director of Development for more information on the capital campaign– 973-383-0115 or glewis@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 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: February 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

Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center “Healing in the Classroom” scheduled for March

Newton – February 29, 2012 – The Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center is offering a two day training for teachers, guidance counselors, school social workers and psychologists to help support students who are grieving the death of a loved. The program also provides resource material & technical assistance as well as offering counselors 12 clock CEU hours and certificates of completion for teachers and social workers.

The program will be held March 20th and 21st, 2012 from 8:30 to 3:30 at the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center located at 61 Spring Street, 1st Floor, Newton, NJ.

Discussions to include developmental theories for children in grief, general grief education, interventions that can be implemented to support a grieving student, components and implementation of a support group within the school setting. Learning objectives will include recognizing grief in children; how to normalize and give support grief for a student, address death and loss in a school setting and how to create and implement a peer support group.

This program is offered through Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center, presented by:

• Director of Bereavement Diana Sebzda, MA, LPC, CT
• Bereavement Counselor Lorri Opitz, MA, CT
• Bereavement Counselor, Jenn Smetana, MSW, LSW

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation, in conjunction with the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center, is an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEPTM) and may offer NBCC-approved clock hours for events that meet NBCC requirements. The ACEP solely is responsible for all aspects of the program.

Tuition for this comprehensive program will be $75.00 per individual participant which includes a continental breakfast & lunch each day. Registration packets will be mailed upon request to attend. If you need further information, please call Diana Sebzda at 973-940-0411 or email bereavement@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 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: January 5, 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: Volunteers for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, Newton NJ preparing Blizzard Packs for families.

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Families Receive Blizzard Packs

The volunteers of the Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation were instrumental in getting the agency’s 2011-12 Winter Season Blizzard Packs out. Blizzard Packs are packages given to patients and their families to remind them of needed items to have on hand in case of emergencies. Included in the Blizzard Packs are such items as battery operated flashlights, manual can openers, toiletry items and canned foodstuffs. Also included are Office of Emergency Management telephone numbers and utility companies within their municipality. “Over 96 packs were assembled by our awesome team!” remarked Marlina Schetting, Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Director of Social Services. Pictured from left to right are Megan Leyden, Marie Umutesi, Tara Costen, Janet Stipo and Kristie Kretz.

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: December 1, 2011
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 Counselors achieve Instructor status by National Board for Certified Counselors

Newton-December 1, 2011-The National Board for Certified Counselors has approved provider status to three counselors of the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center. This status assures the classes they offer have undergone rigorous review and have been found to meet NBCC continuing education requirements. Currently, there are over 43,000 National Certified Counselors (NCCs) who are in need of fulfilling their requirement to complete at least 100 hours of approved continuing education within a five-year period. As approved providers, counselors in need of continuing educational credits (CEUs) will be able to attain some of their credits by attending the programs as offered by the bereavement center; dates, times, and places will be announced in 2012. NBCC encourages NCCs to take advantage of the activities made available by approved providers.

The CEU programs will be taught by Diana Sebzda, Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center Director with NBCC approved co-instructors Jennifer Smentana and Lorri Opitz assisting with bereavement facilitator training and the healing in the classroom workshop. Most of the classes will be taught at the bereavement center located at 61 Spring St. in Newton, but can be offered at other locations on request. The classes range from 1 hour to as much as two day training sessions with credits earned ranging from .1 ceu’s to 1.2 ceu’s.

The following programs qualify and have been approved by the NBCC.

Compassion Fatigue:

Includes definitions given of Compassion Fatigue, Vicarious Trauma and Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder. Discuss “at risk” professions, symptoms of compassion fatigue, self-tests that are available for assessment, importance of self-care, burnout and prevention strategies.

The learning objectives will be to identify professions that fall in the “at risk” categories; identify symptoms in at least three key areas; become familiar with at least one self-assessment protocol; identify meaningful self-care strategies.

Bereavement Facilitator Training:

Program will discuss grief education, grief process, what is appropriate in grief, societal expectations in grief, facilitator self-awareness, multi-cultural diversity and perspectives, organization and implementation of a self-help bereavement support group. Learning objectives will be to learn appropriate expectations in grief; learn what appropriate expressions in grief are; become a self-aware and reflective facilitator; learn how to organize and implement a self-help bereavement support group; become aware of group dynamics; learn how to run an effective self-help bereavement support group.

Healing in the Classroom Workshop:

Discussion to include developmental theories for children in grief, general grief education, interventions that can be implemented to support a grieving student, components and implementation of a support group within the school setting and creating crisis management plans. Learning objectives will include learn to recognize grief in children; learn how to normalize grief for a student; learn how to support a grieving student; learn how to address death and loss in a school setting; learn how to create and implement a peer support group.

For more information and the availability of these classes, please contact the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center in Newton at 973-940-0413, or check with our website, www.karenannquinlanhospice.orgwww.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: November 7, 2011
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

Children’s Grief Awareness Day
November 17, 2011

Newton-November 7, 2011–As “Children’s Grief Awareness Day” approaches on Thursday, November 17 the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center will unite with organizations across the nation by wearing blue to commemorate the day. This third annual event, founded by the Highmark Caring Place, A Center for Grieving Children, Adolescents and Their Families, focuses attention on the impact death has on children and what people can do to help a grieving child.

Founded in 2008, Children’s Grief Awareness Day is now observed every year on the third Thursday of November.

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 children who have had a loved one die – and their grief – out of the shadows. Through thousands of children and adults wearing blue on that day, we call attention to the issue, and children who have experienced a death can feel less alone and isolated in their grief.

The Sussex County Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center 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. Many will also show their support on the Children’s Grief Awareness Day Facebook page and through various activities designed to raise awareness of the needs of grieving children. A Children’s Grief Awareness Day Toolkit containing ideas for a range of activities is available free of charge at www.childrensgriefawarenessday.com.

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.

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

IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

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: The Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center moved into an expanded site at 61 Spring St, Newton and held an open house for the community last month. Over 100 neighbors and friends of the center attended and enjoyed an art display presented by the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council, refreshments, and a silent auction.

Pictured here (center) is Julia Quinlan, mother of Karen Ann Quinlan and wife of Joseph T Quinlan, with Erin Opitz(L)and Holly Opitz(r)enjoying the evening.

The center helps all those suffering with grief from the loss of a loved one through death, including children’s programs and pet loss. They provide individual counseling as well as group sessions in Sussex County at the new Spring St location; in Warren County at the center located at 214 Washington St., Hackettstown; and in the Pike County area of PA at the United Methodist Church in Milford and the Church at Hemlock Farms at Lords Valley. To learn more about their programs or for information to reach any of the centers visit www.KarenAnnQuinlanHospice.org or call 800-882-1117.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: May 5, 2011
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 Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6, also known as National Nurses Day, through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

“Dependable, trustworthy, caring,
Living for others, loving, sharing.
At times wondering “Why am I a Nurse?
Is it a Blessing or maybe a curse? “

Because, at times, Nurses are not appreciated,
For the work to which their life is dedicated.
However, Nurses know their job is worthwhile,
when, after a hard day, a patient will smile.”
—Excerpts from a poem by an author who simply calls herself Carlotta and a retired R.N with 41 yrs experience.

So just what is the definition of “nurse” and how did it arrive? Nursing has been called the oldest of arts and the youngest of professions. The history of nursing walks hand in hand with woman herself; but of course the meaning of the word nurse has changed over the course of centuries. The word nursing is derived from the Latin nutrire “to nourish” with its roots in the Latin noun nutrix which means “nursing mother” (This referring to a wet nurse who breast fed the babies of others). The original meaning of the English word was first used in English in the 13th century and its spelling underwent many forms, norrice, (from the French version of nourrice-a woman who suckled a child) nurice or nourice, to the present day, nurse.

By the 16th century the meanings of the noun included “a person, but usually a woman who waits upon or tends to the sick”. Two more components were added during the 19th century; training of those who tend to the sick and the carrying out of such duties under direction of a physician.

Women, because of maternal instincts, were considered “born nurses”. The parental instinct, however, is present in both sexes of all races. It is thought that women present a greater degree of this due to their traditional role in the family. “Yet the spirit of nursing has no sexual boundaries. Human beings of both sexes have a natural tendency to respond to helplessness or a threat to life from disease or injury.”- Donahue, 1996

In our ancient times, a woman cared for her own family. This expanded to taking care of members in her own tribe. As early civilizations progressed, so did nursing as it began to be performed outside the home. This development led to the inclusion and concentration on additional elements: skill, expertise, and knowledge. So as man learned more and more about disease, illnesses, and treating the injured, nursing evolved to become both a nurturing art and a science.

It is why today the head, the heart, and the hands have united to become modern day nursing’s foundation.
In 1971, a nursing theorist by the name of Joyce Travelbee declared, “A nurse does not only seek to alleviate physical pain or render physical care – she ministers to the whole person. The existence of suffering, whether physical, mental or spiritual is the proper concern of the nurse”. (Travelbee, 1971).

Amongst the many new trends and changes in nursing theory and practice today, this is one trend that holds a particular interest for the hospice and home care nurse; the renewed focus on holistic care and the interest in spirituality and spiritual care for the patient as a “whole”. This concept re-emerged in nursing literature in the 1980’s and has stayed and developed on the present day nursing stage. “As a nurse it is very rewarding to be part of people’s lives and to make a difference in their quality of life.” Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Intake Coordinator Kathleen Hoffman, RN, CHPN continues “particularly in hospice. When families first come to us they are overwhelmed with caregiver stress and once the hospice nurse and team get involved, a peace comes over the whole family.”

The following is a Brief History of National Nurses Week

1953 Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare sent a proposal to President Eisenhower to proclaim a “Nurse Day” in October of the following year. The proclamation was never made.

1954 National Nurse Week was observed from October 11 – 16. The year of the observance marked the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. Representative Frances P. Bolton sponsored the bill for a nurse week. Apparently, a bill for a National Nurse Week was introduced in the 1955 Congress, but no action was taken. Congress discontinued its practice of joint resolutions for national weeks of various kinds.

1972 Again a resolution was presented by the House of Representatives for the President to proclaim “National Registered Nurse Day.” It did not occur.

1974 In January of that year, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) proclaimed that May 12 would be “International Nurse Day.” (May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale.) Since 1965, the ICN has celebrated “International Nurse Day.”

1974 In February of that year, a week was designated by the White House as National Nurse Week, and President Nixon issued a proclamation.

1978 New Jersey Governor Brendon Byrne declared May 6 as “Nurses Day.” Edward Scanlan, of Red Bank, N.J., took up the cause to perpetuate the recognition of nurses in his state. Mr. Scanlan had this date listed in Chase’s Calendar of Annual Events. He promoted the celebration on his own.

1981 ANA, along with various nursing organizations, rallied to support a resolution initiated by nurses in New Mexico, through their Congressman, Manuel Lujan, to have May 6, 1982, established as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

1982 In February, the ANA Board of Directors formally acknowledged May 6, 1982 as “National Nurses Day.” The action affirmed a joint resolution of the United States Congress designating May 6 as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

1982 President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “National Recognition Day for Nurses” to be May 6, 1982.

1990 The ANA Board of Directors expanded the recognition of nurses to a week-long celebration, declaring May 6 – 12, 1991, as National Nurses Week.

1993 The ANA Board of Directors designated May 6 – 12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week in 1994 and in all subsequent years.

1996 The ANA initiated “National RN Recognition Day” on May 6, 1996, to honor the nation’s indispensable registered nurses for their tireless commitment 365 days a year. The ANA encourages its state and territorial nurses associations and other organizations to acknowledge May 6, 1996 as “National RN Recognition Day.”

1997 The ANA Board of Directors, at the request of the National Student Nurses Association, designated May 8 as National Student Nurses Day. –American Nurses Association.

So Happy Nurses Week to all nurses and thank you for choosing nursing!

The Florence Nightingale Pledge

I solemnly pledge myself before God and presence of this assembly; To pass my life in purity and to practice my profession faithfully.

I will abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous
and will not take or knowingly administer any harmful drug.

I will do all in my power to maintain and elevate the standard of my profession and will hold in confidence all personal matters committed to my keeping and family affairs coming to my knowledge in the practice of my calling.

With loyalty will I endeavor to aid the physician in his work, and devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care.

Juramento de Florence Nightingale

Juro solemnemente ante Dios y en presencia de esta asamblea llevar una vida digna y ejercer mi profesión honradamente.

Me abstendré de todo cuanto sea nocivo o dañino, y no tomare ni suministrare cualquier substancia o producto que sea perjudicial para la salud.

Haré todo lo que este a mi alcance para elevar el nivel de la enfermería y considerare como confidencial toda información que me sea revelada en el ejercicio de mi profesión, así como todos los asuntos familiares en mis pacientes.

Seré una fiel asistente de los médicos y dedicare mi vida al bienestar de las personas confiadas a mi cuidado.

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.

Sources:
Donahue, M. Patricia, PhD, RN, FAAN, Nursing The Finest Art – An Illustrated History, 2nd Edition, 1996.
American Nurses Association, 2011.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: May 2, 2011
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: Elenora L. Benz,
of Benz and Reading, LLC,
Attorneys at Law

All are welcome to Charitable Giving Seminar Wednesday May 11th.

Newton, May 2, 2011–The Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice will present a free seminar on charitable giving, featuring Elenora L. Benz, of Benz and Reading, LLC, Attorneys at Law, on Wednesday, May 11 at 4:00 p.m. at the Lafayette House.

“Ellie” Benz concentrates her practice in the areas of wills, trusts, estate and business succession planning, probate and administration of estates. She is a graduate of the College of Saint Elizabeth, Convent, NJ, and earned her law degree at New York Law School, NY, NY.

Ellie belongs to the American Bar Association and the Bar Associations of New York, New Jersey, and Sussex County. She is a member and/or officer of the District XA Ethics Committee (currently Chairman), the Animal Law Committee of the NJ State Bar Association, the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce, the Senior Quality of Life Foundation, Inc., the Bioethics Committee of Newton Memorial Hospital, and The Branchville Rotary Club.

Ms. Benz points out that charitable giving, if done right, is mutually beneficial to both recipient and donor, and adds that she is amazed to find that many clients think that the only way to benefit a charity is to give cash contributions. In her many talks on estate planning, Ellie is known for demystifying planned giving and its benefits. “At the seminar I hope to educate donors on the many ways there are to benefit charities” Benz commented.

Doors will open and registration for the seminar will begin at 3:30, and Ellie’s discussion will be from 4:00 until 5:30, with ample time for questions and answers. Lite refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Glenn Lewis at 973-383-0115, or email at glewis@karenannquinlanhospice.org.

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: December 22, 2008
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
PHONE: 973-383-0115 FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org
WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Cookie trays are being prepared for delivery by Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice volunteers to hospice patients and their families.

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice staff and volunteers deliver holiday delights to families.

Newton-December 22th, 2008-The season of giving was sparkling at the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. Volunteers, hospice supporters, and staff all pitched in and delivered warm Christmas and seasonal cheer to hospice families. Starting on the Monday morning of Dec 8th, the hospice office was the site of the great cookie exchange sponsored every year by the volunteers from Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and Home Health Care. They braved the 15 degree weather and showed up to prepare hundreds of cookie trays filled with home baked cookies. “These cookies were baked by volunteers, staff, and students from High Point Regional HS. The Girl Scouts also contributed candy bags for distribution. Our volunteers make trays filled with all of the varieties, and prepare them for delivery” Sue Morrow, Volunteer Coordinator explained. “We have been doing this for about 18 years”.

PHOTO: L to R Joan Bono of Vernon, she and her husband deliver poinsettias every year for distribution to hospice families, pictured with Beth Sylvester, Clinical Care Nurse, and standing, Cecelia Clayton, Executive Director of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice.

The next round was a delivery of poinsettias donated by Mr. & Mrs. Bono of Vernon. Every year they donate and drop off fifty of these seasonal floral favorites to be delivered to patients homes. The only thing that could be more jolly were the gingerbread houses hand baked, constructed, and decorated by the students of Veritas Christian Academy High School. The week before Christmas, 80 gingerbread houses were delivered and then distributed to families…just one more little pleasure to help brighten the season of hospice families who are taking care of their loved one in their final days.

“It is always an inspiring event to watch all the volunteers, supporters and staff in action; it helps bring the season’s message to the office.” Roxanne Seigel, Director of Marketing, observed.

PHOTO: Gingerbread houses baked, and prepared by the students of Veritas Christian Academy High School.

The ultimate round of goodies involves the delivering of gift cards and holiday dinners to the families. The cards and food collected by the hospice social service department are donated by hospice staff and volunteers. “I feel privileged to work for an organization that values the dignity of each individual. Especially this time of year our mission to serve all in need regardless of their ability to pay, really brings home how our staff, supporters, and volunteers believe in what they do.” cited Marlina Schetting, Director of Social Services.

And a final gift is from a lady who gives to hospice workers all year round. Mary Alice keeps the energy level up with her special deliveries of seasonal candy in an appropriately decorated basket that sits on the front desk for all to enjoy.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a hospice volunteer, please contact Sue Morrow at 973-383-0115. There are many opportunities for men and women to participate and classes are held three times a year in different locations throughout Sussex and Warren County, and Pike County PA

“All hospice can do is hope to bring a little holiday joy to families who are going through a difficult time.” Said Cecelia Clayton, Executive Director.

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. For Northern NJ and 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 all programs and events or for more information please visit their web site www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: November 19, 2008
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
PHONE: 973-383-0115 FAX 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org

WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Nora Bertocci, NJHPCO Board Chairperson presents Richard Clayton from Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Volunteer of the Year award.

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice volunteer receives NJHPCO Hospice Team Award.

Newton-November 19, 2008- Richard Clayton, who volunteers for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice in Newton, was awarded the Volunteer of the Year award at the annual New Jersey Hospice & Palliative Care Organization annual conference held in Eatontown, NJ this past November 12 & 13. At the conference dinner honoring award winners, he was described as a “jack of all trades” by Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice staff and board of directors and “keeps their motor running”. His nominators praised his tireless efforts ranging from physical labor and light bulb changing to his pivotal roles in the recent renovation of the agency’s building.

A former law enforcement officer, he is also a member of the Blue Knights of New Jersey and produces its annual New Year’s Day Chilly-Chili Run (a motorcycle rally fundraiser for the hospice) whose grand prize is a Harley motorcycle. Since 1991 Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has raffled off a new Harley, selling tickets throughout the year. Each year only 2000 tickets are sold at $20.00 each and are available at the hospice location in Newton, the New Jersey State Fair, and other locations as they become offered. Friends of Hospice rely on Clayton to trailer the bike from location to location. He currently lives with his wife in Sussex County and can be seen arranging tables, carrying items, or selling tickets at most hospice fundraisers or events. “We couldn’t do it without you.”—Friends of Hospice.

For more information on NJHPCO and their activities or information about hospice, please visit their website www.njhospice.org. For more information on the Harley ticket raffle, please visit the hospice website or call them at 973-383-0115, or use their 800 number below.

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. For Northern NJ and 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 all programs and events or for more information please visit their web site www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: November 18, 2008
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
PHONE: 973-383-0115 FAX: 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org

WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Jennifer Smetana, an intern social worker for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, Newton NJ preparing the items collected for the Blizzard Packs.

Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice provides Blizzard Packs for patients and their families.

Newton-November 18, 2008- Just in time for winter, but handy to keep all year round are the Blizzard Packs put together by the Social Service team at Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. Social worker Stephanie Bootsma became aware of a need in patients homes for basic essentials when in crisis, for example if the power goes out or similar unexpected interruptions. Hospice social service team members Director Marlina Schetting and Stephanie Bootsma sought to come up with a plan that would help in advance to put families at ease.

Jennifer Smetana, an intern social worker with hospice since August, began almost immediately to fill the need and worked this fall to get the blizzard pack items either donated or funded. The donations and purchases include emergency provisions such as flashlights, non-electric can openers, hygiene items, energy bars, soups, first aid kits, cozy socks, and more were made by hospice employees, Dr. Tirpack of Sparta Dental Design and Friends of Hospice. Fifty bags were prepared and are now being distributed by the Social Service staff and hospice nursing staff in Sussex, Warren, and Morris Counties, NJ and Pike County, PA.

Smetana was happy to make this one of her first projects with hospice recognizing “when these emergencies happen, families already have enough to think about in taking care of a dying loved one….by providing them with this blizzard pack, it is just one thing less they have to consider. We are happy if they (the packs) help in any small way.”

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. For Northern NJ and 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 all programs and events or for more information please visit their web site www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: January 24, 2008
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
PHONE: 973-383-0115
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org

WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Cecelia Clayton, Executive Director of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, is elected to State Hospice organization’s Board of Directors.

Cecelia Clayton, Executive Director of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, is elected to State Hospice organization’s Board of Directors.

Newton NJ-January 24, 2008–Cecelia Clayton, Executive Director of The Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors of The New Jersey Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NJHPCO) for a three term beginning her service in 2008.

The NJHPCO is a nonprofit public service organization that promotes use of hospice and palliative care for end of life. It is comprised of 46 licensed and Medicare-certified New Jersey Hospices, or about 90% of the licensed hospices in New Jersey. The organization serves as a conduit for New Jersey hospices and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.

Clayton, who holds her Masters in Public Health, has served Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice as Executive Director for the past seven years and brings a total of 17 years of Hospice experience and expertise to the 25 member board. The Board of Directors is selected by representatives from member hospices throughout the state. Clayton’s role along with her fellow board members will be to champion hospice concerns and services to the National Hospice Board level and to the NJ Department of Health.

“My goal is to be a powerful advocate in promoting quality end of life care to all those in our state who are in desperate need of hospice services” Clayton revealed. In addition Clayton stated “medical services over the entire spectrum of care are continually being reduced and funds are eroding. We need to insure that those who have contributed all their lives are able to receive what they need during their final months with us”.

The NJHPCO Board of Directors meets quarterly, with their first 2008 meeting to be held February 4, in Trenton. To learn more about NJHPCO” visit their Web site at www.njhospic.org.

Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is compassionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovery patients. They are located at 99 Sparta Ave. in Newton and provide Hospice and Bereavement care in Sussex and Warren counties NJ, and Pike County, Pennsylvania. Please stop by or call them at 973-383-0115. Karen Ann Quinlan Home Health care is located at 755 Memorial Parkway, Phillipsburg, NJ- 908-213-9595 and serves Warren County NJ. They may also be reached at 800 882 1117.

For more information please visit their web site www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: February 26, 2009
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
PHONE: 973-383-0115 FAX 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org

WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

Wound Care Management Now at Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and Home Health Care

February 26, 2009—Newton –Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and Home Health Care is pleased to announce that Carole Burke RN,BSN,WCC, has completed the Skin and Wound Management Course sponsored by the Wound Care Education Institute. Burke has been a homecare nurse for 18 years, and joined the staff at Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and Home Health Care in June of 08 where she serves as a home health care case manager.

Utilizing her expertise in wound care treatment expedites the healing process for the homecare patient and for the hospice patient, where the wound may be incurable; her expertise identifies treatment modalities to ease the pain and discomfort.

Wound Care is constantly evolving and more is learned on a regular basis. Patients with the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and Home Health Care will benefit from her continued interest and knowledge in this ever changing field.

Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation provides non profit services that are passionately dedicated to Hospice care for the terminally ill, Bereavement for those who have lost loved ones and Home Care assistance for recovering patients. For any of the foundation’s services, please call 800 882 1117. Hospice and Bereavement care serve Northern NJ and Pike County, PA. Home Health Care is available in Warren County, NJ. For more information on all programs or events please visit their web site www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: March 3, 2009
CONTACT: Dr. Roxanne Debski- Seigel
Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation
PHONE: 973-383-0115 FAX 973-383-6889
EMAIL: rdebski-seigel@karenannquinlanhospice.org

WEBSITE: www.karenannquinlanhospice.org

PHOTO: Julia Quinlan, President of The Karen Ann Quinlan Charitable Foundation

New Board officers named for Karen Ann Quinlan Charitable Foundation INC.

March 3, 2009-Newton-The Karen Ann Quinlan Charitable Foundation INC.’s, annual re-organization of the Charitable Board of Directors named new officers for 2009-2010. Julia Quinlan will remain as President and preside over the board. Julia is the mother of Karen Ann Quinlan, and co-founder, along with her late husband, Joseph T. Quinlan, of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. The couple started the hospice, located in Newton NJ, in 1980, after their daughter Karen Ann, in 1975, lapsed into a coma and subsequently became the focus of an intense court case. The landmark case resulted in a well-known court ruling that set a precedent for all future cases giving patients and their families the right to live their last stages of life with dignity and respect.

Terry Thompson, President and Chief Operating Officer of Sussex State Bank was named Vice President. Robert Vandenbergh, Senior Executive VP/COO of Lakeland Bankcorp, Oakridge, NJ, remains Secretary. Robert Charlton, CPA, CVA with Nisivoccia & Company LLP has been named as Treasurer. Other members serving on the board are John Quinlan and Dominic Ruggiero (past treasurer).

The Charitable Foundation is entrusted with funds to hold and utilize for the benefit of the Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation and for programs of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. A new subcommittee from the Charitable Board has been established to further the development of the charitable funds and board contributions towards future assignments. Serving on the sub-committee will be Julia Quinlan as chair, Bob Vandenbergh, and Dominick Ruggiero.

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. For Northern NJ and 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 all programs and events or for more information please visit their web site www.karenannquinlanhospice.org.