Joomla! site syndication http://www.agracehospicecare.org Fri, 18 May 2012 10:14:51 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.3 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.agracehospicecare.org Joomla! site syndication http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=299&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – This summer, Agrace HospiceCare will host a free seven-week grief support group for elementary through high-school aged children and their parents/guardians who are grieving the death of a loved one. The Family Series Support Group will take place each Wednesday, June 13 through August 1, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Gilda’s Club, 7907 UW Health Court in Middleton. The group will not meet July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. “Sometimes, after the death of a loved one, parents can feel alone when they don't know how to deal with ongoing grief and the grief of their child after life goes back to ‘normal’,” said Agrace HospiceCare Grief Services Manager Cheri Milton. “This group is a place that both parents and kids can come to feel comfortable among their peers as we acknowledge, validate and support each other—regardless of how long it's been since... Wed, 16 May 2012 21:27:19 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=298&Itemid=106  MADISON, Wis. – The Agrace HospiceCare Thrift Store–East is completing its second year of business and is celebrating with a “Terribly Terrific 2nd Birthday Tent Sale” on Saturday, June 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 3, from noon to 4:00 p.m. The store is located at 1733 Thierer Road in Madison. On Saturday, June 2, everything under the tent is priced at $2, $3 or $4. Featured bargains include men’s and women’s summer apparel: tops, dresses, shorts, capris, polos, pants and jeans. Guests can enjoy free refreshments while they shop. On Sunday, June 3, all items remaining under the tent will be marked down to $1 each. Shoppers will also receive a $5 coupon when they spend $20 at the tent sale. One coupon is issued per customer and is valid for a future purchase at either Agrace HospiceCare thrift store location. The Agrace HospiceCare Thrift Store-West is... Mon, 14 May 2012 21:24:01 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=297&Itemid=106 JANESVILLE, Wis. – Thrivent Financial’s “Care Abounds in Communities” program recently helped Agrace HospiceCare reach its goal of raising more than $41,000 at its wine-tasting fundraiser event Sips & Sounds on March 3. “Agrace HospiceCare is so appreciative of Thrivent’s generous donation! This gift will directly support community programs we provide, such as charity care, respite care, grief support and educational trainings,” said Rock County Development Manager/General Manager Jayme Roth. “Thrivent’s gift helps ensure that all who need our services can expect the very best care when faced with life-limiting conditions.” Becky Weber-Johnson, Thrivent Financial member identified Agrace HospiceCare’s Sips & Sounds event as a worthy recipient for community funding, and as a member of the event planning committee, was able to request funding from Thrivent’s “Care Abounds in Communities”. Obtain more information about the Care Abounds program at https://www.thrivent.com/community/outreach/volunteering/careabounds/ (https://www.thrivent.com/community/outreach/volunteering/careabounds/). Contact: Liz Kopling, Media SpecialistOffice: (608) 327-7219 Cell: (608) 772-9653E-mail: liz.kopling@agracehospicecare.org (mailto:liz.kopling@agracehospicecare.org) Agrace... Wed, 02 May 2012 16:39:40 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=295&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. - A Middleton man's $1.3 million gift to Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg will help expand a training program for doctors specializing in hospice and palliative care. The money from John Peterson, whose wife, Carolyn, received care from the hospice before dying 10 years ago, will endow a fellowship program for doctors in hospice and palliative care — end-of-life care and management of pain and suffering. "Having people who are sensitive to the issues and can provide some guidance and help is absolutely critical," said Peterson, 83, a retired UW-Madison audiologist who lives in the Attic Angel Community in Middleton. Peterson said he didn't know much about hospice until his wife's struggle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. A social worker came to their home and explained hospice services. "I was just bowled over by the enthusiasm and the knowledge and the skill she showed," he said. The endowment will help the one-year fellowship program expand from... Wed, 02 May 2012 15:42:17 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=293&Itemid=106 MADSION, Wis. – DeAnn Richards, RN, infection control preventionist for Agrace HospiceCare, has been named a winner of the 2012 APIC Heroes of Infection Prevention Award, given by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (APIC). Since joining Agrace HospiceCare in September 2010, Richards has demonstrated outstanding process improvement, which has led to superior infection prevention and education of Agrace staff and many staff at Agrace’s partner facilities. “As an infection control preventionist in a hospice setting, my job is to ensure that patients’ remaining days are focused on their loved ones and quality of life, not spent battling unnecessary illness,” said Richards. “When I first arrived at Agrace, I spent a lot of time listening and learning about the unique challenges faced by our more than 550 staff members who serve patients at Agrace, in their homes and at long-term care facilities.” APIC established the Heroes of Infection... Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:40:28 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=290&Itemid=106 JANESVILLE, Wis. – On Monday, May 21, Agrace HospiceCare will host its Golf Classic fundraiser at the Janesville Country Club, 2615 Memorial Drive in Janesville—a new location for this annual outing! Registration begins at 11:00 a.m. with lunch at 11:30 a.m. and a shotgun start with scramble format at 1:00 p.m. Cost for a standard foursome is $600; individual golfers pay $150. The fee includes 18 holes of golf with cart, a picnic style lunch and an hors d’oeuvres reception in the clubhouse following golf. Additionally, golfers will enjoy games, prizes and treats on the course, as well as the opportunity to win great raffle prizes. Register online by visiting agracehospicecare.org, or by calling (608) 755-1871 by Monday, May 14. Early registration is recommended as space is limited. All proceeds benefit the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare, formerly named HospiceCare Inc. This event’s title sponsor is betterMD, and additional sponsors... Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:53:20 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=289&Itemid=106 MADSION, Wis. – Pinnacle Health and Fitness, at 5973 Executive Drive in Madison, is supporting Agrace HospiceCare by donating all funds raised at its upcoming Turbo Kickathon on Saturday, April 14, to the community-based hospice, which serves more than 600 patients daily. Check-in at the third annual Turbo Kickathon will begin at 11:30 a.m., and the four-hour event kicks off at noon. Participants will take part in a combination of intense kickboxing moves and dance moves, all choreographed to motivating music. At 4:00 p.m., participants will cool down and stretch and can participate in a raffle. You do not need to be a member of Pinnacle Health and Fitness to participate in this event. This is Pinnacle Health and Fitness’ third annual Turbo Kickathon and the second year that funds will be donated to Agrace HospiceCare. “We wanted to keep this effort local [in 2011],” said event organizer Susan Bozoki. “So when... Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:07:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=283&Itemid=106  JANESVILLE, Wis. – On Saturday, March 3, Agrace HospiceCare will host its 10th Annual Sips & Sounds, south central Wisconsin’s premier wine-tasting event, from 6:00 p.m. through 10:00 p.m. At a cost of $50 per person, guests will enjoy samples of exquisite wines and delectable hors d’oeuvres as live music from local bands johnny can’t stop and HK fills the air. The event will be held at the Pontiac Convention Center, 2809 N. Pontiac Drive in Janesville.A silent auction and a raffle will feature several fabulous prizes, including $1,000 in cash from a friend of Agrace HospiceCare; a $1,000 room makeover from Flooring & More; a quarter side of beef from Arndt Farms, Inc.; a custom-designed piece of jewelry from Bay Design Custom Jewelers and a sterling silver infinity necklace from Madelyn Co. All proceeds will benefit the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare.To help celebrate the event’s 10th... Wed, 29 Feb 2012 20:39:05 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=282&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – After five successful years at its original Junction Road location, the Agrace HospiceCare Thrift Store–West is expanding into a larger space next door at 118 Junction Road, formerly occupied by the Maytag store. A grand opening event will unveil the new store to the public on Saturday, March 17, from 10:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. Shoppers will enjoy an expanded selection of bargains and free refreshments. All proceeds from the thrift store’s sales benefit the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare, the community’s nonprofit hospice since 1978. Starting Thursday, March 1, the Agrace HospiceCare Thrift Store–West will begin accepting donations at the new location. The larger space will allow the store to expand its clothing department to include men’s clothing and accessories. The thrift store is in need of those items in addition to donations of: Furniture Antiques and collectibles Women’s clothing: current season and in-style jackets, suits, slacks and tops,... Wed, 29 Feb 2012 19:57:18 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=278&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – More than 250 people came to the Wisconsin Institutes for Discovery on December 17 to play Texas Hold’em and enjoy an evening of entertainment for a good cause. The second annual Phil Hellmuth’s Hold’em with HospiceCare Celebrity Poker Event sponsored by Baker Tilly generated $10,000 for the people served by Agrace HospiceCare, south central Wisconsin’s nonprofit community hospice providing assistance to more than 600 area patients and families each day. Funds raised help support Agrace services and programming such as volunteer recruitment, coordination and training; clinical education and training; outreach programs and grief and bereavement services—which provide support to anyone in the community whether or not they have used Agrace before. Poker players went head-to-head against Phil “The Poker Brat” Hellmuth throughout the tournament, in addition to testing their Texas Hold’em skills alongside local and national celebrities including Jerry Kelly, Mark Johnson, Derek Engler and poker pros Annette Obrestad,... Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:07:12 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=262&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Phil Hellmuth’s Hold’em with HospiceCare is back, and so is Madison’s own “Poker Brat,” who will again emcee the marathon poker tournament that benefits Agrace HospiceCare. Poker players who attend the second annual event will have a chance to test their Texas Hold’em skills against 11-time World Series of Poker champion Phil Hellmuth and other celebrities. The action takes place Saturday, December 17, from 2:00 p.m. until midnight at the Wisconsin Institutes for Discovery Town Center, 330 N. Orchard St. in Madison. All proceeds from Phil Hellmuth’s Hold’em with HospiceCare benefit the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare, south central Wisconsin’s nonprofit community hospice providing support for 600 to 650 people each day. "It will be tough to top last year's jet-fueled, energy-laced event! But we aim to, when I hit Mad-town for Phil Hellmuth's Hold’em with HospiceCare 2011 on December 17," said Hellmuth. “This is going... Wed, 30 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=252&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Agrace HospiceCare has been recognized by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) for its commitment to ensuring veterans have access to quality end-of-life care. The community-based nonprofit hospice announced that it has achieved Partner Level One status through NHPCO’s We Honor Veterans program. Hospices can receive We Honor Veterans designations by completing activities for each of the four levels of commitment. This enables U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs staff and veterans to easily identify hospices that have made a commitment to offer veteran-specific care and services provided by a competent and highly skilled workforce, according to NHPCO. “Agrace HospiceCare is committed to the We Honor Veterans program pillars of respectful inquiry, compassionate listening and grateful acknowledgment to honor those who made sacrifices for our country,” said Laura Jennings, Agrace director of community outreach. “By recognizing veterans’ unique needs, Agrace can learn how to accompany... Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:19:31 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=249&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Agrace HospiceCare announced today that after practicing medicine in the Madison area for more than 50 years, medical director Dr. Bill Rock is transitioning to a new role as the nonprofit hospice’s first medical director emeritus. While he will be retired, the status will entitle Dr. Rock to continue to interact with staff, visit with patients and remain an active member of the Agrace community. He will also continue to maintain an office at the Agrace HospiceCare campus in Fitchburg. Consistently referred to as one of the last doctors to make house calls, Dr. Rock volunteered his services as a medical director at Agrace until the Medicare Hospice Benefit of 1983 initiated a system for reimbursing for hospice services. He became the organization’s first official medical director in 1984 and has been with Agrace ever since. Dr. Rock is also a medical director emeritus at... Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:55:28 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=250&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – The state’s largest hospice announced today that, effective immediately, it is changing its name to Agrace HospiceCare after more than 30 years as HospiceCare Inc. The Madison-based nonprofit is making the move to rebrand after research findings identified a need to dispel confusion and distinguish between for-profit and nonprofit hospices within their service area. Research through focus groups and a survey conducted by Chamberlain Research Consultants Inc. showed that the public was confused by or could not recall the HospiceCare Inc. name even though nine out of 10 people served by a hospice in Dane County were cared for by the organization, according to the most recent data available from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The CMS data showed that in Rock County, one in two people are served by Agrace HospiceCare. Research findings HospiceCare’s survey was conducted via telephone with 503 residents of... Mon, 17 Oct 2011 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=238&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Starting in October, Agrace HospiceCare. will host “Living Well with Chronic Conditions.” This six-week, Stanford University-designed workshop helps adults with any chronic health condition better manage their lives by learning new approaches, setting action goals and working to meet those goals in a supportive environment. This effective program is held on Tuesdays, October 18 through November 22, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Agrace HospiceCare., 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison. These workshops are sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging of Dane County and are facilitated by two trained leaders. Participants will learn about techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility and endurance; appropriate use of medications; communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals; nutrition and how to evaluate new treatments. Pre-registration is requested by Tuesday, October 11. For more information or to register, contact Janie Riebe... Tue, 13 Sep 2011 21:15:57 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=235&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – The Brothers of the Third Wheel Trikers will be having a fundraiser for Agrace HospiceCare. at their 11th Annual Sugar River Wisconsin State Rally, being held September 16, 17 and 18. The rally will held at Sweet Minihaha Campground in Brodhead and will feature games, music, food, bake sale, silent auction and fun runs. Proceeds from the bake sale and silent auction will be donated to Agrace HospiceCare. Individual donations are also welcome. A representative from Agrace HospiceCare. will be on site on September 17 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. to answer any questions attendees may have about Agrace HospiceCare services. A fun run ride to Evansville for the David Allan Coe concert will follow. The public is welcome. Campground fees are $2.00 per person with an overnight camping cost of $7.00. Call (608) 862-3769 for reservations.Contact: Linda Massey, (608) 882-6493 Agrace HospiceCare. is a nonprofit, community-based hospice dedicated... Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:57:21 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=234&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Agrace HospiceCare. has appointed Michael F. Fitzpatrick, CPA and Brian L. Happ to the Agrace HospiceCare. Board of Directors. Fitzpatrick is a partner with Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP in Madison. He has been with the firm since 2000. Fitzpatrick provides New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) consulting services to Community Development clients. Fitzpatrick also has experience working with the private equity, mergers and acquisitions and due diligence practice groups. Happ is the executive vice president and chief operating officer of Cogdell Spencer ERDMAN in Madison. He has been with the company since 1998. Happ is active in the community, serving as a director for Shared Imaging, as well as for the non-profit organization Tomorrow’s Hope. He is also on the advisory board of the University of Wisconsin James A. Graaskamp Center for Real Estate. Contact: Dan Chin, Vice President of Public AffairsOffice: (608) 327-7196 Cell: (608) 438-2600Agrace HospiceCare.... Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:25:01 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=231&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth has allowed for the promotion of Marcia Whittington as vice president of the Agrace HospiceCare Foundation and Holdings and the addition of Dr. Suzanne Howard as medical director. In her new role as vice president of the Agrace HospiceCare Foundation and Holdings, Whittington will continue to lead the Foundation in all areas of fundraising and donor relations. These fundraising efforts help Agrace HospiceCare defray costs for services that are not reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance such as grief support, community education, clinical education and volunteer training as well as patient-care services provided to uninsured or underinsured patients. She will also lead the Holdings area of Agrace HospiceCare., which consists of facilities management, purchasing and food services. Whittington has been with Agrace HospiceCare. for more than seven years. Starting her career in 2002, she left in 2007 to serve... Mon, 22 Aug 2011 18:23:45 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=229&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – July 10 was a lucky day for Bruce Knoble of Deerfield, whose name was drawn as the winner of the 2011 Agrace HospiceCare Auto Raffle Sponsored by Zimbrick Honda. Knoble’s prize is a three-year lease of a 2011 Honda CR-V LX 4WD from Zimbrick Honda. The raffle raised nearly $25,000 to support the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare. The 2011 Agrace HospiceCare Auto Raffle Sponsored by Zimbrick Honda began May 22. The prize drawing was held July 10 during the seventh-inning stretch of the Madison Mallards baseball game. Knoble purchased the winning ticket while attending Brat Fest in Madison over the Memorial Day weekend because he “wanted to support Agrace HospiceCare.” He said, “My stepmother was served by Agrace HospiceCare and I wanted to give back to them after all that they did for my family.” Knoble and his wife, Diane, will drive away from... Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:29:07 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=224&Itemid=106 JANESVILLE, Wis. – Agrace HospiceCare. was selected by YWCA Rock County as the recipient of its 2011 Women of Distinction Corporate Award of Merit. The award was presented May 13 at a ceremony held at the Holiday Inn Express in Janesville. Since Agrace HospiceCare. was founded in 1978, women have played a prominent role in the agency. Today, out of the organization’s 552 employees working to provide patients and families the best in end-of-life care, 483 are women. Approximately 80 percent of Agrace HospiceCare’s more than 150 Rock County volunteers are also women. “One factor in awarding Agrace HospiceCare the Corporate Award of Merit was the programs Agrace HospiceCare has initiated to improve women’s lives both in and outside of the workplace,” said Allison Hokinson, executive director, YWCA Rock County. ”Agrace HospiceCare also demonstrates a commitment to the equality and advancement of women, which is a cornerstone of the YWCA.” Agrace HospiceCare values... Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:59:20 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=222&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin’s largest hospice, Madison-based nonprofit Agrace HospiceCare., today released results from a scientific survey it conducted in Dane and Rock counties providing important new insights into usage and perceptions of end-of-life care. Results showed that one in two Dane and Rock county residents has had an experience with a hospice program or service. The study, conducted by Chamberlain Research Consultants Inc., revealed that 91 percent of those surveyed would prefer to spend their last six months of life at home with family, rather than in an intensive care unit treating an illness that cannot be cured. Among those surveyed, the most common reason given for choosing hospice care for a personal situation was if others were “burdened” with providing caregiving. The second most commonly cited reason was that hospice services are available 24 hours per day, seven days a week. The vast majority of respondents, 92 percent, indicated that... Fri, 10 Jun 2011 19:47:32 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=216&Itemid=106 MADISON, Wis. – Agrace HospiceCare. received the 2011 Employer Award from The Arc–Dane County, an advocacy organization working with individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. In nominating Agrace HospiceCare for the award, social worker Jennifer Davis of Advanced Employment said that workers with disabilities at Agrace HospiceCare. love their jobs and “this is due to the kind nature of the staff and the active interest the company takes in encouraging these individuals to grow as employees.” One employee, Justin Holberg, has been with Agrace HospiceCare. for more than nine years. The award was presented at a ceremony at the Madison Concourse Hotel on Thursday, April 28. Betsy Krebs-McGuire, Agrace HospiceCare Executive Assistant to Finance and IT, who supervises Justin, accepted the award on the agency’s behalf. Photo Caption: Betsy Krebs-McGuire, executive assistant (left); Justin Holberg, office assistant; and Jennifer Davis, Justin's social worker after the April 28 award ceremony.Contact: Liz Kopling, Media... Mon, 23 May 2011 19:16:42 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=205&Itemid=106 (MADISON, Wis.) – If you were suddenly in a position unable to speak for yourself, would your family or loved ones know your healthcare wishes? Would they be comfortable making decisions about your healthcare on your behalf? National Healthcare Decisions Day is a reminder that all adults, regardless of age and current health, should take time to communicate their healthcare decisions. In conjunction with National Healthcare Decisions Day April 16, Dane County healthcare providers are joining forces to help residents understand the importance of advance directives and provide tools to complete these forms. Studies have shown that having an advance directive that specified the patient's treatment preferences significantly reduced family stress. DaneDecisionDay.org is a local resource for information about advance directives and links to downloadable Wisconsin advance directive forms. The site also provides a listing of free, upcoming community events related to advanced care planning that will help walk people through the... Fri, 15 Apr 2011 15:43:49 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=206&Itemid=106 (JANESVILLE, Wis). – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that Jayme Roth has been named General Manager of Agrace HospiceCare’s Rock County Office, effective immediately.  With more than four years experience at Agrace HospiceCare., Jayme brings a focus on building community partnerships to her new role. As general manager, Jayme’s customer-focused leadership will ensure that quality patient care is consistently delivered in the Rock County service area. In addition, Jayme will continue as a development manager for Agrace HospiceCare, leading a capital campaign for the recently announced construction of a new Agrace HospiceCare service center in Janesville.“It is my honor and privilege to work for this organization and alongside incredible staff who work to provide excellent care with the utmost compassion and integrity to all of the patients, families and communities we serve,” said Roth. “I look forward to deepening my connection to the community through this new role at... Wed, 16 Feb 2011 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=212&Itemid=106 For Immediate Release Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011(MADISON, Wis.) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth has allowed for the addition of three talented staff members: Sue Abitz, Denise Gloede and Julie Slattery.          Abitz has been named as the director of development. In this role, she will be responsible for major gift development, planned giving as well as areas of annual giving and donor development. Abitz previously served as executive director of the Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation, a position she held for seven of her ten years with this organization.          Gloede has been named as the vice president of access. In this role, she will lead census growth and partner relations. Gloede returns to Agrace HospiceCare after four years with Home Health United, where she led admissions and hospice operations as vice president, admissions and hospice. From 2000 to 2007 Gloede worked at Agrace HospiceCare, serving as the... Wed, 16 Feb 2011 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=213&Itemid=106 For Immediate Release Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2011(MADISON, Wis.) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth has allowed for the promotion of three talented staff members: Ellen Baldwin, Marilyn Miller and Shawnee Parsil.Baldwin has been named director of human resources. In this role she focuses her efforts in compensation, benefits and wellness strategy, while leading the HR generalist and specialist staff. Baldwin also assists with developing HR programs and education to support the agency’s mission. She joined Agrace HospiceCare. in May 2006, and has served as the benefits, compensation Human Resources Information System manger since April 2007. Miller has been named Agrace HospiceCare’s director of electronic health records. In this role she is responsible for the integration of an electronic documentation system to promote patient centered care and regulatory compliance. Miller also leads process improvement projects. She began her work with Agrace HospiceCare. in May 2006 and has... Tue, 15 Feb 2011 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=197&Itemid=106 Living Legend of Poker Generates nearly $140,000 for Agrace HospiceCare. at First Annual Phil Hellmuth’s Hold’em with Agrace HospiceCare (MADISON, Wis.) – More than 400 poker fans gathered in the penthouse of Madison’s Arbor Gate building December 18 to join Madison native and 11-time World Series of Poker champion Phil Hellmuth for an all-day charity poker tournament benefiting a local nonprofit. The first-annual Phil Hellmuth’s Hold’em with Agrace HospiceCare event generated nearly $140,000 to support the people served by Agrace HospiceCare., south central Wisconsin’s nonprofit community hospice providing assistance to more than 650 area patients and families each day. Poker players went head-to-head against Phil “The Poker Brat” Hellmuth throughout the tournament, in addition to testing their Texas Hold’em skills alongside local and national celebrities including Barry Alverez, Matt Kenseth, Jerry Kelly, Casey Fitzrandolph and poker pros Eric Baldwin and Gary Debanardi. After knocking out the other players at the final table,... Wed, 05 Jan 2011 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=188&Itemid=106 (MADISON, Wis.) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth has allowed for the addition of a talented physician to the Agrace HospiceCare medical director team. Kathy Jo Williams, M.D., joins Agrace HospiceCare’s team of medical directors in providing medical services to patients with life-limiting conditions. These services are provided to patients in their homes in Dane, Green, Jefferson, Rock and Walworth counties as well as at the Agrace HospiceCare. inpatient unit in Madison.The addition of Williams and three other medical directors between June and November of 2010, allows Agrace HospiceCare. to expand community-based visits and lend more support to existing programs, such as the Palliative Care Fellowship, a program that was developed in 2009 in partnership with the VA Hospital and UW Hospital Clinics.  Dr. Williams has more than 10 years of experience in the medical field, most recently practicing palliative medicine at the Marshfield Clinic... Tue, 07 Dec 2010 19:55:25 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=186&Itemid=106 (MADISON, Wis.) – Poker fans from Madison and across the state are honing their Texas Hold’em skills to get ready to go “all in” with 11-time World Series of Poker champion Phil Hellmuth as he hosts Phil Hellmuth’s Hold'em with Agrace HospiceCare. The full-day poker event takes place Saturday, December 18, from 3:00 p.m. until midnight in the penthouse of Arbor Gate, 2501 W. Beltline Highway in Madison.All proceeds from the event benefit the people served by Agrace HospiceCare., south central Wisconsin’s premiere nonprofit hospice providing support for more than 650 area patients and families each day.“This is going to be a one-of-a-kind poker event like Madison has never seen before. I’ll have the microphone all night and I’ll be setting up the drama and bringing huge energy to the room,” said Hellmuth. “It’s an actual no-limit Hold’em tournament, but it’s also fun to play in a tournament supporting a... Fri, 03 Dec 2010 18:34:44 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=175&Itemid=106 (JANESVILLE, Wis.) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth has allowed for the addition of a talented physician to the Agrace HospiceCare medical director team. Dena Green, M.D., joins Agrace HospiceCare’s team of medical directors in providing medical services to patients with life-limiting conditions. These services are provided to patients in their homes throughout Dane, Green, Jefferson, Rock and Walworth counties as well as at the Agrace HospiceCare. inpatient unit in Madison.With the addition of Green and four other medical directors between June and November, Agrace HospiceCare. will have the ability to expand community-based visits and lend more support to existing programs, such as the Palliative Care Fellowship, a program that was developed in 2009 in partnership with the VA Hospital and UW Hospital Clinics.  Dr. Green has more than 15 years of experience in the medical field, with more than six years focusing on hematology/oncology.... Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:51:38 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=166&Itemid=106 Agrace HospiceCare. Promotes Dan Chin to Vice President of Public Affairs (MADISON, Wis.) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that Dan Chin has been promoted to vice president of public affairs. In this new role, Chin will continue to be the strategic lead for all marketing, community outreach, public relations and advertising efforts. He will now also lead Agrace HospiceCare. government relations and new business development efforts, including consulting services, product and service development and new business partnerships. Over the past four years, Chin’s collaboration with other Agrace HospiceCare. leaders created strategies that contributed to Agrace HospiceCare. growing from serving 300 patients per day with $19 million in operating revenue and $3.8 million in assets, to an operation serving more than 600 patients per day with $42.8 million in operating revenue and $46.5 million in assets. Also, under Chin’s leadership, the public affairs department became an award-winning, full service internal... Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:48:48 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=211&Itemid=106 For Immediate Release Tuesday, July 13, 2010(MADISON, WI) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth has allowed for the addition of four talented staff members: Dr. Brian Murphy, Sue Orme, Meg Steinke and Joyce Zeasman.Dr. Murphy has been named as the vice president of medical services. In this role, he will provide physician leadership, support the fellowship and medical rotation programs as well as provide care to Agrace HospiceCare patients at the Agrace HospiceCare campus and in the community. Dr. Murphy previously worked at Capital Hospice in Washington, D.C., one of the largest and most respected nonprofit hospices in the country. Orme has been named director of clinical education. In this role, she will assist with the strategic direction of the learning and development department and is responsible for the overall direction, development, implementation and evaluation of clinical education. Orme previously worked for Dean Health System, most recently... Tue, 13 Jul 2010 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=164&Itemid=106 (MADISON, WI) – On Sunday, June 13, Bob Starczynski of McFarland was drawn as the winner of the 2010 Madison Auto Dealers Association Auto Raffle to benefit Agrace HospiceCare. The drawing took place during the seventh inning of the Madison Mallard’s baseball game. This is the eleventh year that the Madison Auto Dealers Association has donated a car for the raffle, with all of the proceeds going to serve the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare. This year more than $48,000 was raised to support patient and family care by Agrace HospiceCare.Recently, Starczynski of McFarland has had two family members served by Agrace HospiceCare. He plans to give the car to his daughter who will be turning 16 soon.Agrace HospiceCare would like to thank the partners that made this event possible: Madison Auto Dealers Association, Mid-West Family Broadcasting, Wisconsin State Journal and the Madison Mallards. Participating dealers of the... Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:17:43 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=162&Itemid=106 (MADISON, WI) – On Friday, June 25, Agrace HospiceCare. will host “Insights on the Hmong Culture: A Focus on Healthcare and End of Life,” from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Agrace HospiceCare Campus, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, in Madison.  At this free seminar, participants will learn about the culture, religion and communication of the Hmong people and how the Hmong community approaches healthcare and end-of-life. The seminar will be presented by Charles Vue, MSSW, the Student Services Coordinator for the UW – Eau Claire Office of Multicultural Affairs and Leon Bernido, MSSW, RN and Agrace HospiceCare staff member. Participants are welcome to bring their lunch to the seminar. A certificate of attendance is available. Pre-registration is required by Wednesday, June 23; because space is limited, reservations will be taken on a first come, first served basis. The conference will be shown via videoconference in Agrace HospiceCare’s Janesville office,... Fri, 04 Jun 2010 15:39:18 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=160&Itemid=106 (JANESVILLE, WI) – The Agrace HospiceCare Foundation Inc. announces that it has received a grant of $1,000 from the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, Inc. The grant is for general support of Rock County Services, ensuring that critical Agrace HospiceCare services are available to everyone in our community who needs them, regardless of their ability to pay. This grant is made available from the Community Foundation’s Cabin Fund. The Cabin Fund provides funding for projects and programs related to animal care, hospice care or horticulture.For more information about how you can impact your community—“For good. For ever.”—through the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, please call (608) 758-0883, out of Rock County at (800) 995-2379, or visit cfsw.org. The Community Foundation serves Crawford, Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, Rock and Walworth counties. Contact: Dan Chin, Director of Public AffairsOffice: (608) 327-7006   Cell: (608) 438-2600 Agrace HospiceCare. is a nonprofit, community-based hospice dedicated to... Mon, 10 May 2010 19:26:17 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=155&Itemid=106 (JANESVILLE, WI) – On Wednesday, May 19, Agrace HospiceCare. will host its Golf Classic at Glen Erin Golf Club, 1417 Airport Road, Janesville. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10:00 a.m. and scramble format. Cost for a standard foursome is $500, individual golfers pay $125. The fee includes 18 holes of golf with cart, a box lunch from Culver’s and a BBQ dinner by Best Events Catering. Additionally, golfers will enjoy games, prizes and treats on the course and a great silent auction and raffle items. To register call Agrace HospiceCare. at (608) 755-1871 or register online at Agrace HospiceCareinc.com by Wednesday, May 12. Early registration is recommended as space is limited. All proceeds benefit the patients and families of Agrace HospiceCare. This event’s title sponsor is betterMD.net, and additional sponsors are E D WaterWorks, Inc., Rock Road Companies Inc., Culvers and Kealey Pharmacy. Additional support for this... Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=146&Itemid=106 Just Went Out: Dean Physician to Provide Services for Agrace HospiceCare. Janesville Dean Physician to Provide Services for Agrace HospiceCare.   Kathryn Lilley, MD to Serve as Medical Director for Southern Wisconsin Office March 23, 2010—Kathryn Lilley, MD, Internal Medicine at Dean Clinic, has been named Medical Director for the Agrace HospiceCare Janesville office. Trained in Internal Medicine, Dr. Lilley has had a strong interest in hospice and palliative care throughout her career. She also takes interest in women’s health, cardiovascular disease and preventative health.  She has been a valued provider with Dean Clinic since 2003 and will continue to see patients at Dean Clinic-Riverview in Janesville. “I am looking forward to working closely with the patients residing in the wonderful facilities Agrace HospiceCare serves throughout southern Wisconsin,” says Dr. Lilley.  “It is a privilege to be trusted by the families of these patients, who want... Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:09:56 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=145&Itemid=106 Hockey Fans Can Donate Bears, Save on Tickets [Janesville, WI] The Janesville Jets, the latest team to join the North American Hockey League, is partnering with Agrace HospiceCare at their Friday, March 12, game at the Janesville Ice Arena. Hockey fans can save $3 off the ticket price when they donate a new teddy bear to Agrace HospiceCare.’s Dori Bear Project. The “Dori Bear” namesake is given to all teddy bears donated to Agrace HospiceCare in honor of Agrace HospiceCare patient Doris Klubertanz, who died in 1994. Because teddy bears were such a comfort to her, Doris left a gift to Agrace HospiceCare to establish the Dori Bear Project. Dori Bears greet patients as they enter their rooms at Agrace HospiceCare’s Inpatient Unit, give comfort to children who visit loved ones, and make their way to the homes of Agrace HospiceCare patients and their families. Agrace HospiceCare. staff will be at the ticket... Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:31:40 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=141&Itemid=106 (JANESVILLE, WI) – On Saturday, February 27, Agrace HospiceCare will host Sips Sounds, south central Wisconsin’s premier wine-tasting event, from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. At a cost of $50 per person, guests will enjoy samples of exquisite wines and delectable hors d’oeuvres as music fills the air. A silent auction and a raffle with several fabulous prizes, including a top prize of $1,000 cash, will take place with all proceeds benefiting the patients and families served by Agrace HospiceCare. The event will be held at the Pontiac Convention Center, 2809 N. Pontiac Drive in Janesville. Registration is requested by Friday, February 19. To register call Agrace HospiceCare. at (608) 755-1871 or register online at Agrace HospiceCareinc.com . Attendees must be at least 21 years of age. Contact: Dan Chin, Director of Public Affairs Office:  (608) 327-7006   Cell:  (608) 438-2600 Agrace HospiceCare. is a nonprofit, community-based hospice dedicated to providing physical,... Mon, 25 Jan 2010 22:41:45 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=137&Itemid=106 (MADISON, WI) – Agrace HospiceCare. has appointed JoAnn Kowalski as chief clinical officer. In this position, she will oversee all Agrace HospiceCare clinical programs, which include four in-home care teams, five long-term care teams, the inpatient unit and the residence at Agrace HospiceCare.    “JoAnn has been instrumental in Agrace HospiceCare’s growth and prosperity. Her most notable accomplishments include her leadership of our quality and compliance department that ensures quality care for our patients and provides guidance and interpretation of federal and state regulations,” stated Susan Phillips, President/CEO.  “In addition, her leadership of the building projects that resulted in the Don Marilyn Anderson Agrace HospiceCare Center, which opened in 2000, and the Ellen Peter Johnson Agrace HospiceCare Residence, which opened in 2006, created a unique, state-of-the-art campus that is nationally recognized for providing inpatient hospice care.”   Since joining Agrace HospiceCare in July 1994, Kowalski, a registered nurse, has held... Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:46:58 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=130&Itemid=106 Growing Number of Late Hospice Admissions a Concern for Hospices in Wisconsin Across the Country (MADISON, WI) – A report released last week by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization [NHPCO] shows that more than 35 percent (35.4) of patients served by hospices in 2008 died or were discharged in seven days or less. This reflects a 4.6 percent increase from 2007, when 30.8 percent of patients had what is considered a short hospice experience. “Patient and Family satisfaction surveys for Agrace HospiceCare often reflect the disappointment of family members in regards to the length of time they are with Agrace HospiceCare, saying that we were so helpful, they wish they had Agrace HospiceCare sooner,” said Lisa Sherven, Agrace HospiceCare. director of access. Hospice is a unique form of healthcare in that it offers each patient an interdisciplinary... Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:03:04 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=125&Itemid=106 Agrace HospiceCare. Promotes Six Staff Members (MADISON, WI) – Due to growth in referrals and patient census, Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce the internal reorganization of its clinical and non-clinical leadership, resulting in the promotion of six staff members. The following leaders were promoted: Sarah Bealles, Deirdre Youngs, Kelly Fischer, Jane Quinn, Lisa Sherven and Ron Galdes.   Bealles has been promoted to the new role of executive vice president/chief financial officer. In this role, she will oversee the finance, facility operations and information technology departments. Bealles has been with Agrace HospiceCare since December 2005, most recently as the chief financial officer.  Youngs has been promoted to the director of general inpatient care. In this role, she will oversee the operations of the Agrace HospiceCare inpatient unit. Youngs has been with Agrace HospiceCare since October of 1999, most recently as director of the in-home program and clinical practice.      Fischer has been promoted to... Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:17:58 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=127&Itemid=106 Culver’s Scoopie Night to Benefit Agrace HospiceCare.   (JANESVILLE, WI) – On Wednesday, October 28, from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Culver’s is holding Culver’s Scoopie Night to benefit Agrace HospiceCare. at the 2633 Milton Avenue location in Janesville. Ten percent of the proceeds raised from food and ice cream sales during these four hours will be donated to Agrace HospiceCare. in support of patients with life-limiting illnesses. For more information, call Agrace HospiceCare at (608) 755-1871.   Contact: Dan Chin, Director of Public AffairsOffice:  (608) 327-7006 Cell:  (608) 438-2600             Agrace HospiceCare. is a nonprofit, community-based hospice dedicated to providing physical, emotional and spiritual support to patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses. With offices in Madison and Janesville, Agrace HospiceCare serves residents in Dane, Green, Jefferson, Rock and Walworth counties.   ###   Wed, 28 Oct 2009 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=126&Itemid=106 HOG Poker Run Raises $4,000 for Agrace HospiceCare. (JANESVILLE, WI) – On August 16 the South Central Wisconsin Harley Owners Group (HOG), Chapter 5547, held a Poker Run fundraiser for Agrace HospiceCare, Inc, 3001 W. Memorial Drive in Janesville. The HOG chapter raised $2,000.00 through poker run registrations, silent auctions, canister drawings, a 50/50 drawing and a kiss-the-pig-contest. The chapter voted to donate an additional $2,000.00 for a total of $4,000.00 going to Hospice Care Inc. Contact: Dan Chin, Director of Public AffairsOffice: (608) 327-7006  Cell (608) 438-2600        Agrace HospiceCare. is a nonprofit, community-based hospice dedicated to providing physical, emotional and spiritual support to patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses. With offices in Madison and Janesville, Agrace HospiceCare serves residents in Dane, Green, Jefferson, Rock and Walworth counties. ### Mon, 26 Oct 2009 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=117&Itemid=106 Agrace HospiceCare. Promotes Five Staff Members (MADISON, WI) – Agrace HospiceCare. is pleased to announce that growth in referrals and patient census has allowed the promotion of five talented staff members: Pam Peterson, Shawnee Parsil, Heidi Kramer, Cheri Milton and Kellee Hanson. Peterson has been promoted to vice president of employee services. In this role, she oversees all phases of the Employee Services, Learning and Development and Volunteer Services functions at Agrace HospiceCare. and serves as a key business partner and advisor to the Agrace HospiceCare board and executive leadership teams. Peterson has been with Agrace HospiceCare since November 2005, most recently as director of employee and volunteer services. As director of patient/family supportive services, Parsil leads the Volunteer and Grief Services departments and represents these groups at the executive level. Parsil has been with Agrace HospiceCare since March 2005, most recently as Director of Volunteer Services. As director of strategy and administrative... Fri, 25 Sep 2009 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=94&Itemid=106 Agrace HospiceCare to Offer Young Adult Grief Support Group Series on University of Wisconsin–Madison Campus (MADISON, WI) – In September, Agrace HospiceCare. will begin a Young Adult Grief Support Group series. This group is designed for those who are age 18 – 30 and have experienced a loss due to death. Participants will receive support and information about the grieving process. The group begins Tuesday, October 6 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and will meet eight consecutive weeks, concluding Tuesday, November 24. The group will meet on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus, exact location TBD. For more details or to register, please call Cheri Milton, Agrace HospiceCare Grief Services, at (608) 276-4660. Contact:  Dan Chin, Director of Public AffairsOffice:  (608) 327-7006    Cell:  (608) 438-2600 Agrace HospiceCare. is a nonprofit, community-based hospice dedicated to providing physical, emotional and spiritual support to patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses. With offices in Madison... Mon, 31 Aug 2009 06:00:00 +0100 http://www.agracehospicecare.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=95&Itemid=106 Marcia Whittington Returns to Agrace HospiceCare as Vice President of the Foundation Marcia Whittington, who has led Gilda’s Club Madison for two years as chief executive officer, will leave in September to head the Agrace HospiceCare Foundation. Whittington was formerly the vice president of the Agrace HospiceCare Foundation from 2002 to 2007, when she left to pursue the opportunity at Gilda’s Club. “I am excited to be returning to Agrace HospiceCare and to be a part of this superb organization. The mission of Agrace HospiceCare is one I strongly believe in and I am honored to lead the Foundation once again and offer donor development and strengthen Agrace HospiceCare’s presence within the community,” said Whittington. Agrace HospiceCare is now serving more than 50 percent of all deaths in Dane County and 30 percent in Rock County. The nonprofit has consistently grown at a rate of 20 percent for the past seven years and... Thu, 06 Aug 2009 06:00:00 +0100