6 • Reflections of Life
www.reflectionslsc.org • 7
St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care
WINTER 2025
Uniting Hearts and Missions: A Community’s Collective Impact
Successful Lifestage Care Planning Event Sets the Stage for More in April T he recent Lifestage Care Planning event was a resounding success, bringing together community members to learn about the importance of preparing for the future. Hosted by St. Francis Hospice, the event provided attendees with invaluable information on advance care planning, healthcare directives, and the resources available to support individuals and families as they navigate life’s transitions. Kaori Fischer, CFP®, Financial Advisor, spoke about financially preparing for the future, offering expert advice on managing assets and securing long-term financial stability. Dedra (Dee) Sibley, Esq., Estate Planning/ Probate Attorney, shared insights into getting legal affairs in order, including the critical differences between wills and trusts. Additionally, Debbie Shepherd, MSW, LCSW, ACHP-SW, Social Worker,
work they do. The saddles became the centerpiece of our photo area, sparking laughter and joy among the team.
But the true highlight of the day came when
Steve and Dorothy joined us. Standing together , I shared the story of these saddles and the connection they had already created. Dorothy spoke about her work with veterans, and Steve shared the mission of CITA. It was a beautiful moment of unity—three organizations bridging their missions for a shared purpose. At the end of the event, the saddles were gifted to Dorothy, where they will continue their journey, offering comfort and healing to female veterans. This simple act of collaboration reflects the heart of our community: when we come together, the impact is immeasurable. From a thrift store shelf to an equine therapy program, these saddles now carry a story of hope, generosity, and the transformative power of partnership—all inspired by the mission of the Te-Kisha Legacy Fund to meet the unmet needs of our hospice patients.
Due to the overwhelmingly positive response, St. Francis Hospice is excited to announce additional Lifestage Care Planning events in April. These upcoming sessions will continue to provide guidance and resources for individuals and families looking to take proactive steps in managing their healthcare journey. Additionally, recognizing the diverse needs of our community, one of the upcoming events will be conducted entirely in Spanish to ensure accessibility for Spanish-speaking residents. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details on dates, times, and locations for the April events. Whether you are just beginning to think about care planning or looking to refine your existing plans, these sessions
S ometimes, the simplest of moments carry the greatest meaning. While visiting CITA Mission to fulfill a request through the Te-Kisha Legacy Fund—a program funded by donations to St. Francis Hospice that helps hospice patients with needs they cannot afford—I spotted two saddles for sale in their store. They caught my eye, and an idea sparked. Our upcoming employee BBQ had a country theme, and these saddles would make the perfect photo props. I approached Kurt, the store associate, and asked if we could borrow them for the event. His response took my breath away: "That is an answer to a prayer." He said he knew that the manager Steve would agree and he graciously offered them with one condition: that they be passed along to someone who could truly use them, as a gift from CITA Mission. Immediately, I thought of Dorothy Walsh and Their Voices of Hope, an organization dedicated to supporting female veterans through equine therapy. I shared their incredible mission with Kurt, and his eyes lit up with agreement—this was where the saddles belonged. Our BBQ was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and compassion during National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Held at a local park, the event honored our staff and the profound
provided essential information about caring for caregivers, emphasizing the importance of self-care and support networks.
will offer vital information to support you and your loved ones. For more information on Lifestage Care Planning or to RSVP for an upcoming event, please contact St. Francis Hospice Foundation at Foundation@ReflectionsLSC. org or 321.360.3456.
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