FAITH PRESBYTERIAN HOSPICE MEMORIALS - FINDING COMMUNITY IN GRIEF
Grieving the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. Faith Presbyterian Hospice (FPH) provides a safe space to grieve by hosting annual Spring and Winter Memorial Services to help individuals acknowledge their grief and remember their loved ones.
In April, FPH hosted the Spring Memorial, where 200 people gathered at FPH’s T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center in the Spiritual Care Center. The moving service was filled with messages of hope, prayer, song and moments of laughter. Afterward, attendees received small boxes containing butterflies, which they released over the picturesque lake on the FPH campus.
FPH held its Winter Memorial in December, welcoming more than 100 individuals to the campus. During the service, FPH Chaplain Jarod Cooper, shared a meaningful message about individual and collective grief, citing the poignant story behind the hymn “It Is Well With My Soul.” Jennefer Dixon, FPH Music Therapist, provided additional music to support the words and prayers shared by FPH Chaplains William Zink, Rick Watts and Vimala Thomas. After the service, attendees received handmade origami star ornaments personalized with their loved one’s name.
These memorials offer a safe space for sharing, grieving and remembrance, providing a sense of community and support. If you or someone you know needs grief support, please visit our website at X to learn how FPH can help.
A WEEKEND OF HEALING AT CAMP ERIN DFW
Last summer, twenty-three families embarked on a profound camping weekend in Central Texas, seeking solace after the loss of a loved one at Camp Erin. This experience went beyond traditional campfires and stargazing, offering an opportunity for healing and connection in the great outdoors.
Eluna, the founding organization of Camp Erin and the largest national bereavement program, partnered with Faith Presbyterian Hospice (FPH) for the second consecutive year to provide this unique grief camp experience. Led by bereavement professionals and dedicated volunteers, Camp Erin is offered to families at no cost, creating a safe space to explore grief, develop coping skills and connect with peers going through similar losses.
“The goal of Camp Erin is to bring grieving families together,” said Erica Smith, Camp Erin DFW Camp Director. “They often feel isolated in their loss, but at Camp Erin they realize they’re not alone. The experience fosters a supportive community among those who share this journey.”
FPH led the first family camp in 2022, and due to its success, Eluna requested this year’s number of camp participants to double in size. Inspired by the pilot program, Eluna now partners with organizations nationwide to offer this family-inclusive model, moving beyond their traditional children’s camp format.
Throughout the weekend, carefully planned grief activities facilitated conversations and bonding among campers. The weekend concluded with a moving luminary ceremony.
PERSONAL CAMP ERIN DFW REFLECTIONS: JESSICA AND CATHY’S STORIES
Jessica’s
Story: A Journey of Rediscovery
In September of 2022, Jessica’s family faced the profound loss of a husband and father. Navigating through the “firsts” without their loved one, they attended Camp Erin DFW with open hearts and no specific expectations. Jessica recounts the transformative experience of seeing her daughter, initially reserved and grieving, take the stage to sing karaoke on the first night of camp.
Camp Erin DFW became a haven where grief turned into healing, laughter coexisted with tears and her children rediscovered the joy of simply being kids. The bonds formed during those days lingered beyond the camp, evolving into lasting friendships that continue to offer mutual support on the journey through grief. Jessica reflected on the serendipity of finding a supportive community at Camp Erin DFW, a place where broken hearts mended.
Our family lost a husband and father in September of 2022, so when we attended Camp Erin, we had not even been through all our “firsts”. The grief was very fresh, and we had no idea what we were doing.
My daughter wasn’t thrilled with me for signing her up for camp, and my son was just excited to be around other kids. We came in with no real expectations, and we left forever changed.
From the first night, where I got to see my extremely shy grieving daughter get up on stage and sing karaoke to the instantaneous friendships made through the innocence of little ones…
I got to see my kids truly be kids for the first time since their dad had passed away. They laughed, cried, did the hard work that grief work is, and I saw them truly breathe again. They were not “the kids who lost their dad”. They were just kids.
We walked away from Camp Erin a little more healed, a little more refreshed, and with friendships that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. To this day, four of us Mamas and our kids continue to stay in touch and support each other on this journey.
We are all certain God knew we needed to find each other, and He knew Camp Erin was the perfect place for our broken hearts to do that!
– Jessica, mom of Hadlie (14) and Cooper (8)
We are so thankful that we were included in the Camp Erin family weekend. My kids and I were able to connect with other families with children our same age that also lost their father at a young age. My youngest son, Mark, was almost 13 when my husband passed away unexpectedly in August 2022.
At Camp Erin, we met 3 other families with teens almost 14 who lost their father recently. I also connected with the mothers. We had a reunion a few weeks ago. It was great to see everyone connect immediately. We are looking forward to staying in touch with these 3 other families in the same situation.
Camp Erin family camp brought us all together.
– Cathy, mom of James (16) and Mark (14)
Cathy’s Testimonial: Connecting Through Shared Loss
Cathy expressed gratitude for being part of the Camp Erin DFW family weekend. Having lost her husband unexpectedly in August of 2022, Cathy attended camp with her children, including her youngest son, Mark, who was almost 14 years old at the time.
Camp Erin DFW facilitated connections with other families facing a similar journey and Cathy met three other families with teens who were all grappling with the recent loss of their fathers. She emphasized the immediate connection between those who shared the unique experience of loss. These families stayed in touch and gathered for a fall reunion.
Camp Erin’s impact extends far beyond its duration, leaving permanent marks on the hearts of those who find solace during the summer weekend.
A HEARTWARMING CELEBRATION OF LOVE AND FAITH: A FAITHFUL WISH COMES TRUE
On Saturday, September 16, 2023, a touching celebration unfolded at the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center (TBPHC), marking the 39th wedding anniversary of Peggy and Robert Darmousseh. This devoted couple, known for their enduring love, had their heartfelt end-of-life wish granted through the “Faithful Wishes” program at Faith Presbyterian Hospice (FPH). The FPH “Faithful Wishes” program grants special requests like this through community fundraising and donations, providing transformative and inspirational experiences for those in hospice care.
Robert, a former manufacturing company employee and championship-winning soccer coach, and Peggy, a former part-time real estate agent turned full-time homeschooling mom, always faced life’s challenges together. They raised two sons, hosted foreign exchange students and cherished the highs and lows of their long marriage. When Robert’s health took a turn, the couple found solace and care at FPH’s TBPHC, a place known not only for medical support but also for fostering community and compassion.
With their anniversary approaching, Robert expressed a desire for a celebration to honor their enduring love and the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. The FPH hospice team, applied their unwavering dedication to providing holistic care and took on the task of making this “Faithful Wish” a reality. They reached out to Shahrzad Mediterranean Market and Grill to provide a delicious meal, as Robert is originally from Iran and moved to the United States in 1979. They also contacted volunteers like Lara Cupit who provided flower arrangements and Denise Wilson who donated a beautiful cake.
And on the evening of September 16, the Mabee Foundation Café at TBPHC was transformed into a haven of love and joy. Decorated in the couple’s wedding colors of white, silver and shades of pink, the room was filled with flowers, candles and photographs capturing their decades of happiness together. Surrounded by 20 close friends and family, including their six grandchildren, everyone enjoyed a scrumptious feast, shared cherished memories and toasted to love and resilience.
As the evening drew to a close, the Robert and Peggy exchanged a tender kiss, reaffirming their commitment to each other. The celebration had not only granted their “Faithful Wish” but also allowed their loved ones to witness the beauty of a love that endured through all of life’s trials.
In a world often filled with challenges, the Robert and Peggy’s story is a reminder that even in the midst of adversity, love and community can create moments of unparalleled joy.
EMPOWERING PVN TEAMMATES: SCHOLARSHIPS FOR EXCELLENCE
In a pointed display of support for professional growth and education, the Adair Foundation made substantial contributions to Presbyterian Village North (PVN), benefiting teammates and aspiring health professionals.
History of the Live and Thrive Your Way Fund
In 2021, the Adair Foundation established the “Live and Thrive Your Way Fund” at PVN with a generous donation of $40,000. This fund serves as a tribute to Joni Watson, Forefront Living Director of Business Development, and Joyce Thompson, PVN’s Admissions Coordinator, inspired by their exceptional care for Curtis Meadows during his residency at PVN. This fund aims to empower PVN teammates beyond the constraints of the annual budget by providing opportunities for continuing education.
Establishment of the Curtis and Patricia Meadows Health Career Scholarship Fund
In 2023, building on their commitment, the Adair Foundation contributed an additional $25,000 to the Forefront Living Foundation. This donation was made in honor of Curtis and Patricia Meadows, establishing the “Curtis and Patricia Meadows Health Career Scholarship Fund.” This scholarship supports Allied Health Professionals at PVN, enabling them to pursue advanced health education and professional development opportunities. A scholarship committee comprising of key stakeholders from PVN and FLF oversees the allocation of these funds.
Beneficiaries of the Funds
In March 2024, PVN celebrated the first recipients of these impactful funds:
• Tracy Bardfield, a licensed physical therapist assistant, utilized the “Live and Thrive Your Way Fund” to enhance her skills in Complete Decongestive Lymphedema therapy. She mastered techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy, enriching her care for residents battling lymphedema.
• Taylor Slatten, a certified speech-language pathologist with a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders, plans to advance her education in vital stimulation. This is made possible through the “Live and Thrive Your Way Fund,” enhancing her ability to serve PVN dysphagia patients effectively.
• Sehar Hashmi, currently serving as PVN’s Administrative Rehab Technician and pursuing a degree in kinesiology with a psychology minor at the University of North Texas, is the first recipient of the “Curtis and Patricia Meadows Health Career Scholarship Fund.” She aspires to earn a doctorate in occupational therapy, inspired by her meaningful experiences at PVN.
Each beneficiary expressed deep appreciation for the opportunities provided by these funds, highlighting their commitment to ongoing professional development and dedication to enhancing care at PVN. The Adair Foundation’s contributions continue to make a profound impact, fostering a culture of learning and growth among healthcare professionals at PVN.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: FORMER EMM CHAIRS GATHER FOR AN INSPIRING BRAINSTORMING SESSION
On November 6, 2023, a gathering of former chairs of the Each Moment Matters Luncheon (EMM) and Forefront Living Foundation teammates took place at the residence of Admiral and Mrs. Patrick M. Walsh. The afternoon as marked by insightful discussions to brainstorm and innovate strategies that would ensure the ongoing success of this cherished luncheon.
Guests included Alison Doherty, Elizabeth Gambrell, Christie Carter, Pamela Busbee, Susan Farris, Mary Ann H. Till, Junior Villanueva, Beth Plumlee and Patti Flowers. Each brought a wealth of experience and diverse perspective, with topics ranging from selecting keynote speakers to choosing ideal Dallas venues. Central to their discussions was the goal of making EMM meaningful and enjoyable, especially for the upcoming generation of supporters and attendees.
The gathering was expertly hosted by Andy Walsh, whose gracious hospitality ensured that conversations flowed smoothly and productively throughout the afternoon. As ideas were exchanged and plans formulated, there was a palpable sense of optimism about the future of the luncheon. The group departed with a shared commitment to implement innovative ideas that would elevate the event to new heights of impact and success in the years to come. A special thank you is extended to The Garden Gate for providing the elegant floral arrangements which added a touch of beautiful sophistication to the gathering.
The 2024 EMM Luncheon is scheduled to take place on Friday, September 13, at the Hilton Anatole. Preparations are underway to transform the collective vision discussed into a reality that will raise the necessary funds for FPH and the patients and families it serves.
OZZY: A PAW-SITIVE PART OF FAITH KIDS
SEPTEMBER MEETING
The September 2023 Faith Kids bereavement group meeting held in the Marnie and Kern Wildenthal Education Center on the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center (TBPHC) campus was filled with joy and warmth, thanks especially to a very special guest – Ozzy, the therapy dog! Ozzy’s visit brought smiles to the faces of many as they shared moments of comfort and companionship. With children ages 3-18 in attendance, this heartwarming event left a lasting impression on the young hearts that needed it most.
Ozzy, a nine-year-old Goldendoodle, has been making a paw-sitive difference since becoming a certified therapy dog in September of 2022. His journey as a therapy dog began when his loving owner, Shari Price, retired and Ozzy eagerly stepped into this new role. His deep affection for people and Shari’s desire to bring comfort and happiness were the driving forces behind him becoming certified through the Heart of Texas therapy dog organization. Ozzy is a seasoned traveler and eagerly hops into the car for any opportunity to visit people. He especially enjoys hospitals and school environments. His visits typically range from 30 minutes to a maximum of three hours per facility, making him a reliable source of support wherever he goes.
Ozzy visits the (TBPHC) every other Monday, providing comfort to those in hospice care. He also has a few standing dates at other locations and eagerly signs up for various outings like book reading sessions at the library and school visits whenever his busy schedule permits.
Shari Price adopted Ozzy when he was just 10 weeks old and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Ozzy resides in Duncanville, Texas, with Shari and three furry siblings – another Goldendoodle and two Australian Shepherds. They share a strong bond and often engage in playful adventures together. Weighing in at 75 pounds, Ozzy is a gentle giant. His lush, well-groomed coat and endearing personality make him an instant hit wherever he goes. Bacon-flavored treats hold a special place in Ozzy’s heart and he’s been known to perform incredible feats just to savor that irresistible flavor.
Ozzy, with his unwavering dedication to bringing joy and comfort to others, is a true hero in our community.
The Faith Kids bereavement group was just one of many instances where Ozzy’s presence made a significant impact. We salute Ozzy and his owner, Shari Price, for their selfless commitment to spreading love, one wagging tail at a time.
TUITION-FREE BEZOS ACADEMY
PRESCHOOL OPENS AT PVN
In November, Presbyterian Village North (PVN) celebrated with a ribbon-cutting for Bezos Academy – North Dallas. The tuition-free, full-day preschool opened its doors to students on November 7, 2023. This was the second Bezos Academy preschool located in a senior living facility, and one for four Bezos Academy preschools set to open in Dallas.
The ribbon-cutting was performed by Kanetria Doolin, Head of School at Bezos Academy – North Dallas; Dustin Allen, PVN Executive Director; Scott Polzin, COO of Forefront Living and Sabrina Watkins, Partnership Development Leader at Bezos Academy. Tours of the preschool were offered following the remarks and ribbon cutting.
“I am pleased PVN was selected to host the first Academy in Texas on a senior living campus and am excited to see Bezos Academy – North Dallas become a reality,” said Tim Mallad, CEO, Forefront Living. “We look forward to many years of working together.”
Bezos Academy – North Dallas is open to children ages 3 to 5 years old. With room for 80 students, the preschool offers full-day, year-round programming. The Montessori-inspired curriculum focuses on hands-on activities to teach literacy, math, sensory development, social-emotional learning and more. This approach allows every child to develop naturally — to learn and grow at their own pace. Bezos Academy covers all the operating expenses for preschool programs at no cost to the families they serve. The organization hires, trains, develops and pays talented educators, and provides everything that the children need during their day, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
“We’re thrilled to open our second Bezos Academy preschool hosted by a senior living community,” said Mike George, President of Bezos Academy. “We know the positive impact that tuition-free preschool has on families, and research shows that intergenerational programming benefits the young and seniors alike. By bringing Bezos Academy and Forefront Living together, we’ll be able to support families of all kinds in the Dallas Area.”
Bezos Academy – North Dallas is located on the PVN campus at 8703 Stults Road, Suite 100, in Dallas. Families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level, or about $120,000 per year for a family of four, with children aged 3-5 are eligible to apply. For details on eligibility and the lottery-based selection process are available at apply. bezosacademy.org.
