OKEECHOBEE – November is Hospice and Palliative Care Month.

At their Nov. 18 meeting, Okeechobee County Commissioners presented a proclamation honoring Treasure Coast Hospice and their work in the county.

“All of us at one time or another has been touched by Hospice,” said County Commission Chairman David Hazellief.

He said he was thankful for the help they provided to members of his own family.

“In a time of need you step in and take care,” Hazellief added.

“It’s an honor and privilege for Treasure Coast Hospice to serve the residents of this county,” said Jeff White, who accepted the proclamation on behalf of Treasure Coast Hospice.

The proclamation states: As a community nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, Treasure Coast Hospice proudly serves the residents of Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties since 1982, becoming nationally recognized for the quality of our care and our range of services.

“The Hospice Care model involves an interdisciplinary team of skilled professionals that include physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, counselors, health aides, spiritual care providers and others who make the wishes of each patient and family a priority.

“Hospice and palliative care organizations are advocates and educators about advanced care planning that help individuals and families make decisions about the care they want at end-of-life stages.

“Today Treasure Coast Hospice serves more than 4,000 patients annually, providing holistic patient-centered care, physical, emotional, and spiritual support to patients and their families in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties.

“Treasure Coast Hospice specializes in hospice care, inpatient units, veteran program, music therapy and a pediatric care program, Little Treasures, which improves the quality of life of children and teens with a life-limiting illness by providing support for the entire family.”