Absolute Home Health & Hospice

07/04/2025

Happy Independence Day from Absolute Home Health & Hospice!

Today, we celebrate freedom, honor our nation’s heroes, and cherish the moments that matter most. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and patriotic 4th of July!

06/19/2025

CNA Week Spotlight: Shyanne Szeiff

In celebration of CNA Week, we’re honored to spotlight Shyanne Szeiff, a dedicated Hospice CNA with Absolute Hospice. Shyanne has worked in healthcare for 12 years and has been with our team for just over a year. Her passion for caregiving was inspired by her mother, who has been an aide for over 20 years. Watching her mother care for others with such compassion left a lasting impression, and Shyanne has carried that same heart into her own work. What she loves most about her role is becoming more than “just a caregiver” to the patients and families she serves — building real, meaningful connections.

One of the most touching moments in her career came when a patient’s family told her, “You have a kind heart, and you are more than just a worker. It takes a special person to do what you do and the way you do it.” On the difficult days, it’s her patients’ smiles — even when the sun isn’t shining — that keep her motivated and grounded in her purpose. Outside of work, Shyanne loves camping, fishing, photography, and spending time with her family and friends. And here’s a fun fact: she’s a huge Luke Bryan fan! Her advice to new caregivers is simple but powerful: “Always remember we do what we do for a reason — this may be the last thing we can do for them.” One of her favorite quotes, by Brené Brown, reflects her quiet strength: “Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” Thank you, Shyanne, for showing up every day with courage, compassion, and heart. You are truly a gift to our patients and their families.

06/18/2025

CNA Week Spotlight: Grace Woods – A Heart Led by Compassion and Faith

As we celebrate CNA Week, we’re honored to recognize Grace Woods, a CNA serving patients through Absolute Hospice. Grace has been in healthcare for nearly three years and has been part of the Absolute family since September 2023.

Grace’s journey into caregiving began with a deeply personal experience—caring for her grandmother at the end of her life. That experience sparked a calling she’s followed ever since. She now provides care with empathy, attentiveness, and a genuine desire to bring comfort to those who need it most.

Grace strives to be the ears for those who want to talk, the voice for those who can’t speak for themselves, and the gentle hands for those who can no longer care for themselves.

Every moment in hospice care holds meaning for Grace, but one memory that stands out was early in her journey—a birthday celebration she organized for one of her patients. Seeing that patient’s face light up with joy reminded Grace why she loves what she does.

What motivates her? Being a trusted friend and a safe presence. Even on difficult days, Grace finds purpose in being the person her patients turn to for comfort and connection.

Something many may not know is that Grace’s path was made possible by a generous nurse from a previous job who offered to help her pay for CNA classes. It was, as she says, “the biggest unexpected blessing” of her life.

Outside of work, Grace enjoys spending time with her husband and their new kittens. Her hobbies, much like her personality, are warm, joyful, and full of heart.
When asked what advice she’d give to others entering the field, she shared:
“Take it one step at a time. Give yourself a chance to breathe in the stressful moments. Give yourself grace and compassion. Be yourself—even if that means being a little sillier than usual. Sometimes that’s exactly what our patients need.”
One verse that guides Grace’s work is:
“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

Even the smallest actions, she believes, carry great purpose—especially in those quiet moments of simply sitting with a patient so they don’t feel alone.
Grace, thank you for your heart, your faith, and your dedication to our patients. You are a blessing to everyone around you.

Happy CNA Week! We are so grateful to have you on the Absolute team.

06/17/2025

CNA Week Spotlight: Cherokee Hampshire – Compassion in Action

This CNA Week, we’re proud to celebrate Cherokee Hampshire, a dedicated Hospice CNA at Absolute who brings kindness, strength, and faith to every patient she serves.

Cherokee has worked in healthcare for 9 years and joined the Absolute Hospice team last year. Her passion for caregiving was sparked simply by her love for helping others. Whether she’s supporting a patient or comforting a family, Cherokee finds fulfillment in being there in whatever way she can.

For Cherokee, one of the most meaningful parts of her job is seeing the smile on someone’s face after just being present and listening. In hospice care, those quiet moments of connection matter—and she embraces every one of them.

What keeps her going through difficult days is her faith. As Cherokee puts it, “God put us on this earth to do something good. And for me, it’s helping someone who can’t do it for themselves.” That purpose keeps her grounded and inspired.

Outside of work, Cherokee loves spending time with her three beautiful children. Fishing and family time are some of her favorite ways to unwind and recharge.
One thing many may not know about Cherokee is just how deeply she values encouragement. Her advice to anyone new in this field is simple but powerful:
“Always know that you are just as important as anyone else. Some days it might not feel like it, but you are.”

Cherokee, thank you for the compassion, and strength you bring to your work every day. Your dedication truly makes a difference in the lives of our patients and families.

Happy CNA Week from all of us at Absolute—we’re so grateful to have you on the team.

06/16/2025

CNA Week Spotlight: Lexi Schreckengost-Carver– A Heart for Hospice

This week, as we celebrate CNA Week, we’re proud to highlight one of our compassionate and dedicated team members—Lexi Schreckengost-Carver, a Hospice CNA with Absolute.

Lexi has been working as an aide since she was 18 and became a licensed CNA in 2023. Nearly a year into her journey, she’s found her calling in Hospice, with providing comfort, care, and companionship during life’s most meaningful moments.

For Lexi, caring for others comes naturally—it’s her love language. She finds joy in being the person who helps patients smile, feel happiness again, and experience a renewed sense of life. One memory that stands out for her is organizing a special lunch date for a patient and his wife. Watching them reconnect and enjoy each other’s company reminded her exactly why she does what she does.

Her motivation comes from the deep bonds she builds with her patients. To Lexi, they’re not just patients—they become family. She values every moment, from the laughter and activities to the emotional goodbyes. Being present during their final days is something she holds with great honor and care.

Outside of work, Lexi loves spending quality time with her children, exploring new foods, and planning family activities. She encourages those new to the field to always ask questions—reminding us that there’s always more to learn and no such thing as a silly question.

One of her favorite quotes sums up her strength and resilience:
“Strength grows in the moment you think you can’t go on, but you keep going on anyway.”

We are so grateful to have Lexi as part of the Absolute team. Her warmth, dedication, and heart for hospice make a lasting difference in the lives of those she cares for.

Thank you, Lexi, and thank you to all of our CNAs for the incredible work you do each and every day. You are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.

06/12/2025

Happy CNA Week!

At Absolute Home Health & Hospice, we’re proud to recognize and celebrate the incredible work of our Certified Nursing Assistants this week—and every week.

Our CNAs are the hands and hearts behind so much of the care we provide. In Hospice, they offer gentle, compassionate support during some of life’s most tender moments—helping patients remain comfortable, preserving dignity, and being a steady, loving presence for families. In Home Health, they assist with personal care, promote independence, and bring comfort and companionship right into the home.

From helping with daily activities like bathing and dressing, to simply being someone who listens and cares, CNAs make an impact that goes far beyond the task at hand.

Throughout CNA Week, we’ll be spotlighting some of the amazing team members who go above and beyond every day. Thank you to our CNAs for the love, patience, and strength you bring to every visit.

You are truly the heart of Absolute.

06/04/2025

The Absolute Hospice team recently came together to celebrate a very special milestone — the 40th birthday of our incredible Medical Director, Dr. James Franz!

Dr. Franz leads with compassion, dedication, and heart. His commitment to our patients and staff motivates us every day, and we’re so grateful for the leadership and warmth he brings to the Absolute Hospice family.

From all of us — thank you, and here’s to many more years of making a difference!

05/28/2025

We are proud to recognize Melissa Downs, our dedicated social worker, as a recipient of Absolute’s ICARE Award. Melissa exemplifies the true spirit of our ICARE philosophy—Integrity, Commit, Accept, Respect, and Excel—in everything she does.

Melissa leads by example and is the kind of team player who inspires those around her. She consistently goes above and beyond for her patients, showing not just professionalism, but deep compassion. Whether she’s sitting at a patient’s bedside in their final hours, bringing a birthday lunch to make someone feel special, or finding creative ways to comfort patients in distress, Melissa’s actions speak volumes about her character and commitment.

She is a wealth of knowledge, a source of strength for families, and a cornerstone of support for our team. Her impact is immeasurable, and her dedication never goes unnoticed.

Melissa, thank you for embodying what ICARE stands for. Your heart, hard work, and integrity make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve—and in the hearts of all who work alongside you.

Absolute’s ICARE philosophy was implemented with the intention of creating awareness and upholding the belief that every member of our team is invaluable. We are more than just colleagues; we are a family of motivated, caring individuals who share a deep dedication to our patients, families, and one another. ICARE isn’t just a culture statement; it’s a promise to ourselves, our colleagues, and customers. It’s a commitment to uphold the values that have defined us for years and to take our company and our careers to new heights.

05/26/2025

Honoring Our Heroes This Memorial Day

Today, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness will never be forgotten.

At Absolute Home Health & Hospice, we are deeply grateful for the freedoms we enjoy because of their sacrifice. As we serve our community with compassion and care, we remain inspired by their legacy of service.

This Memorial Day, let us all take a moment to reflect, remember, and give thanks.

In memory of our fallen heroes — we honor you.

05/15/2025

Nurses Week Employee Spotlight: Wendi Gaus, RN, Hospice Clinical Supervisor

As we celebrate the extraordinary dedication of our nursing team extending past Nurses Week, we are proud to highlight Wendi Gaus, Hospice Clinical Supervisor serving the Columbus/Caldwell region. With 17 years in nursing—eight of those with Absolute—Wendi brings not only clinical expertise but a genuine passion for end-of-life care that touches everyone she encounters.

Inspired from a Young Age
Wendi’s calling to nursing started early, when she watched her grandfather receive hospice care at home. She remembers the stream of visitors, the calm and caring nurses, and the profound sense of compassion that filled the room. That childhood experience planted the seed for a career rooted in service and empathy. “I thought, this is what I want to do,” she reflects.

She first got hands-on exposure to hospice in a long-term care setting, where visiting hospice teams impressed her not only with their expertise—but also their warmth (and their treats!). More than anything, she was drawn to the idea of keeping patients comfortable and learning their life stories. That sense of connection still drives her work today.

Meaningful Care with Heart
For Wendi, the most fulfilling part of her job is helping patients and families find dignity and comfort during a deeply emotional time. Whether it’s explaining what to expect, holding a hand, or simply listening, Wendi believes in the power of presence and reassurance.

She also understands that no matter how well you plan, flexibility is key in nursing. “That’s one of the most important lessons I’ve learned—prepare for changes and stay adaptable.”

She’s especially proud of the tight-knit relationships she’s built with her team and her patients. One quote she lives by, from hospice pioneer Cicely Saunders, beautifully sums up her approach: “We will do all we can not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.”

Leaning on Her Team—and Loving the Chaos
In a role that can be emotionally intense, Wendi stays grounded by leaning on her colleagues. “We’re a close team,” she says. “We communicate regularly and support one another.”

Outside of work, Wendi is busy—really busy. She’s the proud mom of six kids, and their household also includes two cats. Life is full of hockey, traveling, and joyful chaos. On especially tough days, a little comfort food helps too (though she might be too busy for that most of the time!).

Not everyone knows this, but Wendi is also in school to become a nurse practitioner, with plans to stay in hospice and palliative care. Her goal? To continue advocating for high-quality end-of-life care from a new angle.

Looking Ahead—and Offering Advice
Wendi’s dream travel destination is Italy—or anywhere in Europe—though she admits, “Rich says I pack too much to go!”

To new hospice and home health nurses, Wendi offers this heartfelt advice: “Take a breath. Give yourself grace. Try not to take your work home with you. And remember—it’s a gift and a privilege to be part of someone’s journey at the end of life.”
Thank you, Wendi, for your heart, your leadership, and your unwavering dedication. You truly embody the spirit of hospice care.

05/13/2025

Nurses Week Employee Spotlight: Teri Phillips, Case Manager

As we continue to celebrate our Nurses at Absolute Home Health & Hospice, we proudly shine a spotlight on Teri Phillips, a dedicated Case Manager based out of our corporate office. With 27 years in nursing and two years with our team, Teri brings a depth of experience to her role that embodies the heart of nursing.

A Journey Born from Love and Strength
Teri’s path to becoming a nurse is rooted in a profound personal experience. Her son was born at just 27 weeks and required a tracheostomy at five months old. Facing that level of caregiving head-on gave Teri the confidence and purpose to pursue nursing. “If I could take care of this tiny baby with everything going on,” she recalls, “I knew I could be a nurse.”

She was also inspired by her mother, whose long and impactful nursing career left a lasting impression on her. It’s a legacy of care and compassion that Teri now continues in her own unique way.

Finding Purpose in Home Health
When Teri relocated to Ohio, she found herself at a crossroads, ready for a new chapter in her career. That flexibility, she says, is one of the great things about nursing: “There are so many different opportunities and areas of expertise.”
Teri discovered her calling in home health, where she found fulfillment in getting to truly know her patients and their families—not just as care recipients, but as people with stories, challenges, and goals. Educating patients about their conditions and helping them move toward recovery is a part of the job she deeply values.
One of her most memorable and meaningful experiences involved a long-term patient who followed her to Absolute after she left a previous agency. Teri had cared for him for nearly two and a half years. The day before he passed, she visited and shared a quiet, mutual understanding with his wife that the time had come. She was able to return to say her final goodbye—a testament to the deep bonds that can form in this field. “Some of our patients become family,” she shares.

Compassion in Action
Teri lives by a powerful personal and professional motto:
“Treat patients as I would want my own family to be treated—with caring and respect.” Her approach to Excellence in Caring is grounded in presence and attention. “When I’m with a patient or family, I’m fully there,” she says. “Listening, answering questions, giving them my focus.” Having walked through many of life’s challenges herself, Teri finds strength and motivation in being able to relate to what her patients are going through. She knows that sometimes, the most important thing she can offer is simply a listening ear.

The Gamer with a Heart
Outside of work, Teri surprises many with her hidden talent: she’s a gamer and a tech-savvy PC builder, having built several gaming computers over the past 20 years. Currently playing Diablo 4, she jokes that her comfort activity after a tough day is: “Killing monsters....”

Her dream travel destination? Ireland, where she hopes to take in the landscapes and culture. Her favorite quote speaks to the spirit she brings to nursing and life: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Words to the Next Generation
To those just entering the field of home health or hospice, Teri offers honest, heartfelt advice: “Home Health isn’t for everyone. But it’s a calling—and it’s rewarding in so many ways. Seeing the difference I can make in the lives of my patients and families makes it all worth it.” Thank you, Teri, for your unwavering dedication. We’re proud to have you on the Absolute team. Happy Nurses Week!

05/12/2025

Nurses Week Employee Spotlight: Josie Wilson, LPN, Clinical Support Specialist

Continuing our Nurses Week celebration, we’re proud to spotlight Josie Wilson, a compassionate and dedicated nurse based in our Canton office. Though Josie has been with us for less than a year, she brings 16 years of nursing experience and a deep commitment to supporting patients and their families to our team as our Hospice Clinical Support Specialist.

A Calling Inspired by Family
For Josie, the path to nursing was personal—her mother was her inspiration. That early influence sparked a career centered around compassion and resilience. Now in the field of hospice care, Josie finds her purpose in helping patients experience what she describes as “a good death.”

To her, a good death means one that is peaceful, dignified, and aligned with the patient’s wishes—whether that’s being in the comfort of their home, surrounded by loved ones, or simply having their pain managed with compassion and care. It’s about helping people leave this world with grace, and offering families the emotional and practical support they need during this difficult time.

One of her most meaningful moments came when she was thanked by name in a patient’s obituary—an important reminder of the impact nurses have during life’s final chapter. “That moment made me feel incredibly proud,” Josie shares. “It’s an honor to be part of such intimate, important moments.”

Living “Excellence in Caring”
To Josie, “Excellence in Caring” means showing up with the right support for both patients and families—emotionally, physically, and practically. In the face of grief or fear, her greatest tool is simple but powerful: listening.

Over time, Josie has learned one of the most profound lessons a nurse can carry: death is not so scary. This perspective fuels her calm presence and helps her stay grounded. After hours, she resets with alone time, often spent hiking or working on ceramics, and treating herself to her favorite comfort food—ice cream.

A Global Spirit with a Heart for Home
There’s more to Josie than meets the eye. She speaks three languages and dreams of traveling to Australia or Egypt someday. Her favorite quote reflects her proactive spirit: "If not me, then who? If not now, then when?"

Words of Wisdom
To nurses new to the world of home health or hospice, Josie offers this advice:
“It takes a full year to feel completely comfortable in your new position—give yourself that time.”

She closes with a heartfelt shoutout:
“To all my nurse friends I’ve met along the way, you’ve helped shape me into the nurse I am today. Love you.”

Thank you, Josie, for your compassion and your dedication to truly meaningful care.

06/17/2024

Did you know that men, on average, die almost five years earlier than women? In fact, studies show that women go to the doctor twice as much as men. Men’s Health Month brings awareness to the health issues all men face by encouraging early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. This month allows encouraging men and boys to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury.

Brush up on your health facts, listen to your body, and be sure to get regular checkups. Not only will you live longer, you’ll have a better quality of life. Even if you do not feel sick, it is important to see your doctor regularly and schedule annual exams. Here are some of the screening tests recommended by Johns Hopkins for men 65+:
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Blood pressure
• Colorectal Cancer
• Depression
• Diabetes mellitus, type 2
• Lipid disorders

06/14/2024

People across the United States celebrate Flag Day on June 14 each year to honor the United States flag and to commemorate the flag’s adoption. What we know fondly as the “Stars and Stripes” was adopted by the Continental Congress as the official American flag on June 14, 1777, during the Revolutionary War.

06/13/2024

Tomorrow is National Blood Donation Day. Your blood donation can save up to 3 lives but not only that, donating blood also reduces your risk of heart attack, and donating at least once a year can help improve your blood flow and reduce arterial blockages. Contact your local Red Cross to find a blood drive near you.

04/24/2024

On behalf of everyone at Absolute Home Health & Hospice, thank you to all of our operations and administrative professionals for your hard work and valued support. A strong administrative team is essential for bringing bright and positive energy into the workplace and maintaining seamless day-to-day operations. They oversee our referral process, coordinate with our care team, assist with the benefit process, and offer information and support to our patients, families and customers. We would not be able to do what we do in Home Health & Hospice without these individuals!

03/30/2024

03/04/2024

Thank you for your positive impact on patient care.
Social workers play a critical role in connecting their clients and families with resources and services available in their communities. One of the most important roles of social workers is to advocate for their clients. They work to ensure that their client’s needs and rights are met, and they often act as a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Social workers also provide counseling and support to their clients. Absolute is proud to provide social work services to our patients and could not do this without our amazing team. If you have a social worker in your life, take a moment to thank them for the hard work they have chosen to do.

02/14/2024

Valentine's Day is all about showing others you care. This year spend time treating yourself. Here are some great ways to start. Unplug by taking an hour away from your phone and computer, binge your favorite show, eat something wonderful, or just spend time with a friend. Self-care is a small but important part of your mental health. This Valentine's Day, remember to give yourself a little love.

12/25/2023