POSTAL SERVICE ISSUES 'HOSPICE CARE' STAMP

In tribute to the nation's 3,000 hospice programs,~ the United States Postal Service (USPS) issued its newest commemorative first-class $.33 stamp last week, in recognition of the 25,000 professionals and more than 100,000 volunteers that have made hospice increasingly the quality end-of-life choice for Americans.

The "Hospice Care" stamp design is a butterfly over a home, symbolizing life's journey to its final stage. More than 100 million of these stamps will be issued, and are available, starting today, at every post office in the country.

As more Americans live longer, managing end-of-life has become increasingly a subject for families to plan together. A nationwide Gallup poll conducted in 1996 showed that when asked to name their greatest fear associated with death, respondents most cited "being a burden to family and friends,' ranking even above "fear of pain."Hospice care provides dying individuals an opportunity to conclude their lives with dignity and a minimum of suffering. It is a difficult subject to face.

"In my experience as a hospice nurse, I've often found that discussion of the end of human life remains a most sensitive subject for people, regardless of age," said Helen Sander, RNc, of VNA of Southeast Missouri. "For many, our own mortality, or that of friends and family members is still difficult to confront, inquire about or plan for."

"This stamp presents an opportunity both nationally and locally to share the message that dying well, surrounded by friends and loved ones, is an option available to all Americans," notes National Hospice Organization president, Karen A. Davie.

"We could not be more grateful to the United States Post Office for their generosity in dedicating talent and resources to salute those associated with the hospice movement," said Scott Miskelly, VNA Hospice Director. "The end of human life remains one of the most sensitive subjects for discussion, but increased public education on hospice is a healthy and constructive way to let people know they do have options that give them more control over their final days," he added.

The "Hospice Care" stamp was formally introduced at a hospice in Florida. In Jackson, VNA Hospice volunteers, Joe and Evelyn Dollinger eagerly purchased the new stamp for use on their mail. The Dollingers and numerous other volunteers contact friends and associates annually during the "Sp~ring~~ For Life" event requesting contributions to VNA Hospice. The funds they raise are used locally to provide end-of-life care to residents lacking the funds to purchase the needed services.

"Since Joe began his battle with cancer, we have gained strength in being with and others and doing the hospice work." reports Evelyn. "We've met the nicest people as VNA Hospice volunteers. There just isn't anything like it," she continues. "Our lives are blessed by the company of these fine people who permit us to share a portion of their lives. We've never felt so whole," says Evelyn as Joe nods agreement.

"Joe and Evelyn Dollinger are two of the most enthusiastic supporters of VNA Hospice," said Sander, involved in bringing a Medicare-certified hospice to Southeast Missouri since 1993. "They have worked side-by-side with numerous families facing that last journey in this life. They share their love with everyone they meet."

"VNA Hospice is truly blessed to have volunteers like this couple.".

"The USPS receives about 40,000 requests a year for commemorative stamps, so this is a very selective process," said Mark Heuschober, Jackson Postmaster. "We felt that on many levels, hospice services are something that Americans need to know more about. We hope this helps raise that awareness."