Two Leaders in Hospice and Palliative Care to Receive "Lights of LightBridge" Award July 11th

SAN MARCOS, Calif., June 4, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- www.csupalliativecare.org, www.lbhcf.org Two leaders in palliative care and hospice care will be recognized for their unique contributions to their respective fields on July 11^th by the LightBridge Hospice Community Foundation. Helen McNeal, Executive Director of California State University Institute for Palliative Care and Peggy Davis, LightBridge Hospice volunteer representing the Pet Therapy Program for LightBridge Hospice; will receive the Lights of LightBridge: A Celebration of Light award for their steadfast commitment to shedding light on the lives of others. Jill Mendlen, Chairman of the LightBridge Hospice Community Foundation said, "These two women are being recognized for their deep commitment to hospice and palliative care. Helen as an executive and Peggy as a volunteer, exemplify what compassionate care is all about."

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In addition to honoring McNeal and Davis with the Celebration of Light award, the event will feature a reception with refreshments, integrative therapy displays, musical entertainment, and a special candle-lighting ceremony for those who were a light and those who are a light in our lives.

The CSU Institute for Palliative Care has been under the leadership of Helen McNeal since its launch in September of 2012. Another driving force and staunch supporter of the Institute's mission has been the President of Cal State San Marcos, Dr. Karen Haynes. Dr. Haynes said, "Under Helen McNeal's leadership, the CSU Institute for Palliative Care is setting a new precedent for palliative care education. She is helping others understand the importance of holistic care — of care that is considerate, compassionate, and mindful of the wants and needs of the patient and their loved ones. She is a catalyst for change, a person whose vision and experience has enabled Cal State San Marcos to take the lead in creating a new paradigm for healthcare education. She is richly deserving of the annual Lights of LightBridge award!"

Jill Mendlen, said, "Peggy Davis is one of those unique individuals with a gift for connecting with both people and animals. Through her volunteer work with the LightBridge Hospice Pet Therapy program, she brings a healing atmosphere to those on hospice care by blending the love and compassion of therapy dogs with a compassionate professional team of care providers. Peggy is very special to the staff and patients at LightBridge because what she does is remarkable. Last year, she made 400 patient visits, including weekly visits to the Veteran's Home in Chula Vista. That's commitment! I am very honored to recognize both Peggy and Helen with the Lights of LightBridge award as they continue to share their light with so many others."

Funds raised during this event will support exceptional programs for patients and their families such as simple gifts, music therapy, integrative therapy and financial support towards hospice care. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities, ticket availability, or media interviews for this event at: http://lbhcf.org/ or www.csupalliativecare.org. The event will be held July 11^th from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. at Old Poway Park from 7:00 to 8:30 in Poway, California. For further event details contact Wendy at: 858-458-2992.

About the CSU Institute for Palliative Care

The CSU Institute for Palliative Care is America's first statewide educational and workforce development initiative dedicated to palliative care. The Institute offers professional development and continuing education courses designed to enhance the skills of current and future health care professionals. It also delivers customized corporate educational and community awareness programs designed to increase awareness of palliative care across California and around the nation. In addition to the hospice and palliative care programs offered, the Institute has made the eBook – Caregiver's Handbook available on the its website.

About the LightBridge Hospice Community Foundation

The non-profit LightBridge Hospice Community Foundation strives to bring peace, comfort and support to patients and their families by funding programs and services that enhance the end-of-life journey. A variety of programs fund integrative therapies such as aromatherapy, healing touch, music, pet therapy, and more.

Contact:
Steve Dahl
CSU Institute for Palliative Care
760-750-7292
Email

SOURCE CSU Institute for Palliative Care