HOSPICE

VNA’s Hospice program improves quality of life through compassionate care and helps patients at the end of their lives achieve physical and emotional comfort

Clifford Downing, a recent VNA patient, played in a band, Clifford Downing with Bad News, for almost 20 years. He opened for many Nashville stars including Johnny Paycheck and he even once played with Chubby Checker. Clifford and his wife, Verna, built their home and raised their daughter together. Clifford had always lived a full life, but when he was diagnosed with a terminal pulmonary condition, he needed some help from VNA’s Hospice program to continue to live his life to the fullest. VNA’s Hospice team helped Clifford breathe more easily, and his VNA nurse, Meagan, made several suggestions that helped him be much more comfortable

17,106

Home Health visits in 2021

991

“It’s been a big peace of mind, and we know we can depend on Meagan and trust her. She’s got great advice. She doesn’t give up on trying to help him understand this is a good thing to do and try it, and then he loves it and forgets she had to talk him into it. It’s just a real comfort, truly.” Home Health —Verna Downing patients served in 2021 With care and support from VNA’s Hospice team, Clifford was able to stay safely and comfortably in his own home with his wife of 52 years until he passed.

9,833

Hospice visits in 2021

308

Hospice patients served in 2021

Happy Anniversary, VNA Hospice!

In August 2021, VNA’s Hospice program celebrated 40 years of improving quality of life.