To the editor:

Our deepest thanks to Fort Dodge and the surrounding communities for your ongoing support of UnityPoint Hospice and quality end-of-life care. On Saturday, February 1st approximately 375 people gathered at the Starlite Village to attend the 28th Annual Hospice Ball – all united by a common thread: the UnityPoint Hospice program.

We were honored to serve as co-chairs of the event. The Hospice Ball celebrates loved ones we have lost and raises awareness and funding to benefit UnityPoint Hospice patients. The evening included a buffet dinner, a program honoring those served by UnityPoint Hospice, a silent auction with many donated items and a dance. The event was meaningful and fun; organized with the help of UnityPoint Hospice staff and volunteers. Thank you to everyone who played a role in the success of this event. Thank you to Trinity Foundation who also supports and assists in this annual event.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Debbie Hofbauer Compassionate Caregiver Award. This award is given annually to a UnityPoint Hospice team member who had a positive impact on the lives of patients and their families. Nominations are accepted throughout the year from family members and the recipient is selected by a committee. This year UnityPoint Hospice was proud to recognize Robin Nichol, R.N.

All proceeds from this event remain in our community to benefit UnityPoint Hospice patients and families at home, in a care facility or at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home. Proceeds support family education, community bereavement, and Hospice volunteers. Funds also assist patients with supplies or equipment, special celebrations, communication devices, library resources, music, Angel Hands molding, supplies to assist with dementia patients, travel, and care for individuals without funds to cover end of life care.

UnityPoint Hospice has served the Fort Dodge Community for over 30 years. This very important program brings compassionate, quality end-of-life care to individuals in our community. Your commitment to this program is outstanding. We thank you and applaud you!

Susie and Ed Birnbaum

Christy and John Nielsen

Co-chairs, 28th Annual Hospice Ball