There is one thing all of us have in common, none of us can deny, and none of us can avoid.
Someday, in some fashion, each of us will die.
How we die is the question. For some death comes quickly, suddenly. For many others, the final stage of life is long, painful, dehumanizing.
It doesn't have to be that way.
Over the past half century the idea of Hospice services for the terminally ill has grown from a concept to an integral part of the medical and cultural segments of our society. And yet, it is something many people don't think about until it is needed. It is the harbor of last resort as we try to deny the inevitable.
Fortunately, there are those in this community and across the country who believe that people should not be forced to suffer, should not lose their dignity in those final days or weeks of their life. Most of these people are volunteers who do the hard work of aiding not only the dying, but the survivors. This is truly selfless work, and it takes a very special person to do it.
November is officially Hospice month, one of the official observances that tend to blur into the crowd of official observances. But, try to keep in mind that Hospice is a service that you or a loved one may turn to in your ultimate time of need.
Although the "official" observance is next month, with Hospice of Warren County's Annual Memorial Service at 3 p.m. on Nov. 6 at Holy Redeemer Church, you may be interested in a presentation by Maggie Callanan, the author of two books often shared with families of Hospice clients. She will be speaking at 3 p.m. Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Struthers Library Theatre. Advance registration is available today for $20 or $25 after today by calling Hospice of Warren County.