Delaware Hospice

11/19/2025

Our Wilmington Festival of Trees was once again a wonderful success, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the heart, dedication, and teamwork of our incredible volunteers.

From meticulously decorating trees, greeting guests, and assisting with our marketplace or bake shop, to even playing beautiful renditions of Christmas music on the flute, our volunteers poured their time, talent, and energy into creating a warm and memorable experience for every visitor. Their attention to detail and willingness to jump in wherever needed are what bring this event to life each year.

To every volunteer who showed up, gave their all, and helped create something truly special: thank you. Your kindness is felt far beyond the holiday season, and we are deeply grateful for you.

If you missed the fabulous weekend we just shared at Brantwyn Estate, you still have one more chance to experience the magic of Festival.

Our Milford Festival of Trees begins this Friday at noon at the Delaware Hospice Center. We hope to see you there!

11/18/2025

As we continue to celebrate National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, we are filled with deep gratitude for the many people who help make our mission possible.

It means so much to work beside individuals who give their time, their heart, and their energy to others. One of those amazing people is Delaware Hospice Volunteer, Julia Mayne.

Julia’s connection to Delaware Hospice began through her parents’ care. When her mother needed additional support at home, she received assistance from a home health aide, nurse, social worker, and chaplain. Years later, when her father was hospitalized and entered hospice care, his final 48 hours were spent under the care of the very same social worker and chaplain who had walked alongside Julia’s family during her mother’s journey.

Though their experiences were different, they were both exceptional, leaving her family feeling supported, informed, and comforted.

After the passing of both parents, Julia found herself with time and a desire to give back. Not long after, she became a Delaware Hospice volunteer.

“There are a variety of activities to choose from—helping clients with transport to medical appointments, witnessing the signing of important documents, picking up and delivering prescriptions, respite visits, and representing Delaware Hospice at community events. There is something for anyone’s schedule, interest, and level of comfort.”

If you’ve ever visited our Wilmington Festival of Trees, chances are you’ve bumped into Julia. She first decorated a tree in 2009 in memory of her mother, and over the years has taken on more roles, from planning and promoting to working the event and even baking for it.

For the past three years, she and a longtime friend have sponsored and decorated a tree in memory of their parents, a tradition they hope to continue for many years to come.

Thank you, Julia, for sharing your time, compassion, and talents so generously. You are a cherished part of the Delaware Hospice family, and we are so grateful for the light you bring to others.

11/17/2025

During the third week of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, we are highlighting the power of community.

Working in hospice and palliative care means being surrounded by people who care deeply for patients, families, and for one another. All week long, we’re recognizing the incredible network of volunteers, donors, and community partners who make up Delaware Hospice’s wider circle of care.

One of those caring individuals we are proud to highlight is Board Member and dedicated volunteer, John Ward.

For over 35 years, John has generously volunteered at our organization, giving his time, compassion, and steady presence to support our mission. As a Delaware Community Foundation fundholder, he also gives generously to ensure we can provide care to anyone who needs it, regardless of their ability to pay.

John embodies what the power of community truly looks like. We’re grateful for his decades of service and for everyone who strengthens our mission through partnership and support.

Recently, John joined Mike DiPaolo, Vice President for Philanthropy & Southern Delaware at the Delaware Community Foundation, and our Vice President of Sales & Business Development, Anna Veniegas, on CoastLife TV to discuss how fundholders empower nonprofits across the state and the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community.

Watch the episode to hear their full conversation and see the power of community in action: https://www.coastlife.com/sponsors/from-donation-to-impact-with-the-delaware-community-foundation/video_d6d7ec28-0d38-51f4-90c3-5f325adb9f16.html

11/15/2025

Today, we’re honored to spotlight one of our incredible Certified Nursing Assistants, Dawn Young.

After seeking a change of pace from her previous career, Dawn joined the Delaware Hospice team. She has been with us now for nearly eight years.

“I love listening to my patients share stories from their past and seeing their faces light up. What I love most is the one-on-one care and attention I’m able to provide to each patient and their family.”

Outside of work, Dawn is a motorcycle enthusiast and enjoys taking them out for a ride with her husband!

As we continue to celebrate National Hospice & Palliative Care Month, we’re especially grateful for our team members, just like Dawn, whose compassion and dedication reflect the heart of our mission every day.

11/14/2025

Our friends from WDEL stopped by again to highlight our Festival!

You can check out the display today from noon to 4 PM as well as tomorrow and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM!

11/14/2025

It’s opening day! The 2025 Wilmington Festival of Trees will officially be open to the public today at noon!

Stroll through a stunning display of decorated trees, enjoy festive sights, and soak in the season. Admission is free all weekend!

Please be advised: Christmas spirit levels may rise significantly. 🎄

11/13/2025

This week, we’re celebrating Nurse Practitioners Week!

At Delaware Hospice, our Nurse Practitioners play a vital role in providing expert, heartfelt care to our patients and families. Whether through hospice or palliative care, they bring comfort, knowledge, and guidance to help each person navigate their journey with dignity and peace.

During National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, we’re especially grateful for their commitment to helping our community live fully, even in the face of serious illness.

Thank you to our incredible NPs for all that you do. Your compassion, skill, and dedication make a lasting difference every day and in every patient interaction. 💙

11/12/2025

In this second week of National Hospice & Palliative Care Month, we’re celebrating the incredible people who embody the heart and soul of our mission.

One of the many caring faces of Delaware Hospice is Stephanie Passwater, our dedicated Intake Coordinator, who has been part of our organization for over 12 years!

After graduating from school, Stephanie interviewed with a member of our team. Once she learned more about our mission and what we stand for, she immediately knew Delaware Hospice was where she wanted to be.

“I knew I could truly make a difference here. Being able to help patients and families during their most vulnerable moments is not only rewarding but also an honor. Every day, I’m reminded of the impact compassionate care can have.”

When she’s not supporting patients and families at work, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her family and friends. You can often find her outdoors, rallying her son and the neighborhood kids for bike rides or backyard sports!

We’re so grateful to have Stephanie as one of the many caring faces behind Delaware Hospice who exemplify the compassion, pride, and heart that define our care.

11/11/2025

Today—and every day—we honor those who have served. This Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who chose the selfless path of defending our nation.

At Delaware Hospice, we recognize that military service can profoundly impact a person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual journey during the end of life. Our team provides compassionate support that not only manages symptoms and guides families, but also acknowledges and honors each Veteran’s unique experiences.

Through specialized staff training, individualized care plans, and heartfelt recognition ceremonies, we ensure our Veteran patients receive the dignity, comfort, and appreciation they deserve.

As a proud Level 4 Partner of the We Honor Veterans program, we remain committed to serving those who once served us.

We welcome you to learn more about how our team stands beside Veterans and their families through the We Honor Veterans program. Discover more here: https://delawarehospice.org/patientcare/

11/07/2025

Halloween is now behind us. You know what that means. We are T-minus 7 days until Brantwyn Estate transforms into a winter wonderland for Festival of Trees!

We could not be more excited to kick off this year’s celebrations! One of Santa’s elves has even let us in on a little secret...you can expect to see quite a few more beautiful trees this year!

Our Festivals remain free to attend but if you simply cannot wait for a first glimpse, we highly recommend purchasing a ticket to our Deck the Halls for Delaware Hospice VIPreview Party!

For last minute details on all things Festival of Trees, please visit: https://delawarehospice.org/festival-of-trees/

11/06/2025

One of our teams will once again be featured in Delaware Today’s upcoming issue of the "Faces of Delaware." This year, our Dementia Care Team will take the spotlight!

Please enjoy this sneak peek from the photoshoot and be on the lookout for the issue releasing in January!

Delaware Hospice’s Dementia Care Program provides expert support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Shaped by the CMS GUIDE model, our interdisciplinary team works together to improve quality of life for both patients and families.

Our team includes professionals from multiple departments and roles, all collaborating to reduce confusion, frustration, and isolation for those affected by dementia. With personalized care, practical support, and education, we help families navigate this journey with confidence and compassion.

Learn more about how we can best support you or someone you love: https://delawarehospice.org/patientcare/

11/05/2025

“We wish we had chosen hospice sooner.”

Unfortunately, that is a phrase we hear from families repeatedly.

Hospice care is about living fully, focusing on comfort, and quality of life. Yet far too often, hospice is considered too late, leaving families with less time to experience the support and peace it can bring.

Research shows that when hospice care begins earlier, patients experience better pain control, fewer hospital visits, and more time for what truly matters: being together. Families also benefit from emotional, spiritual, and practical support that helps ease stress and anxiety.

Choosing hospice is not about giving up. It is about making the most of the time you have.

Learn more about the benefits of early hospice care and how Delaware Hospice can help guide you through every step of the journey.

Read our full blog post on choosing hospice sooner by visiting:

Hospice offers patients and their families individualized expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support at the end of life. But all too often, hospice is considered too late—if at all. In fact, 40 percent of Medicare beneficiaries...