By Michael Butler

In recognition of National Home Health and Hospice Month, Community Home Health and Hospice honored one of its volunteers this week. Pat Reed has been chipping in for a quarter of a century in Tallassee.

“It’s my understanding she came to volunteer soon after (Community Home Health and Hospice) opened,” said Laura Leigh Peters, who has over two decades of work herself with the branch of Community Hospital. “Pat and Bob (her husband) both volunteer with us. They do an amazing job.

“Sometimes you call our agency and Pat or Bob will answer the phone. They deliver meals. They do various projects to make holidays special for patients and families. When I say active volunteers, they’re doing something every week to make lives better of the patients in our community. That’s something to be celebrated.”

Reed is glad to do her part.

“I’m thankful for the fact that God has given me 83 years of a healthy life,” she said. “I just want to give back to others and help people.”

November is the month that honors the volunteers, nurses, home care aides, therapists and social workers who provide care and support to home health and hospice patients.

Peters spoke about the differences between the two services.

“Home health is meant to be a restorative service. Hospice is meant to be a plan of care for end of life, whatever that season may be.”

Kendall Robinson has been working on the home health side for the past six years.

“We can send a nurse or therapist to keep you from going back to the hospital,” Robinson noted. “We can rehab you back if you’ve had surgery and get you back to where you were.”

For those interested in Community Home Health and Hospice services or in becoming a volunteer, call 334-283-4522.