Under a cloudy April sky, more than one hundred people gathered in the serene garden of the Delaware Hospice Center. They were there to honor the memories of their loved ones, celebrate their impact, and find solace among friends. The Brick Dedication Memorial Service provided a poignant opportunity for the Delaware Hospice community to come together and reflect.
A large circle of people of all ages formed around the garden’s entrance near a white-pillared gazebo. Delaware Hospice’s President and CEO, Susan Lloyd, warmly greeted everyone in attendance, opening the floor to anyone who wished to speak. One by one, attendees stepped forward to share their heartfelt stories, express gratitude to the hospice staff, and join in fellowship with family and friends.
Holly Seramone, wearing a purple top and dark-framed glasses, was the next to speak. Introducing herself from New Castle County, Holly took a deep breath before recounting her emotional journey. “My mom was my best friend,” she began, her voice breaking with emotion. She described the devastating moment in late 2015 when her mother’s health took a drastic turn.
After a fall and a hospital visit, Holly’s mother underwent several tests revealing lesions on her skull that required close monitoring. Her condition worsened over the next few months, and in January 2016, Holly received life-shattering news: her mother was diagnosed with End-Stage Glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. “The doctor told me there was not a lot they could do at that point,” Holly recalled. “He told me to wrap my head around the fact Mom was not going to see February.”
Following the doctor’s referral, Holly was contacted by Delaware Hospice. “Delaware Hospice was amazing from the initial phone call to the end,” she said. The staff promptly set up equipment at Holly’s home, providing comprehensive care and support. Holly took time off work to be with her mother full-time, relying on Delaware Hospice to help with bathing, medication, and mobility, and to give her much-needed breaks.
Holly’s mother passed away on January 31, with Holly by her side. “I took every moment that I could to be with her. Having Delaware Hospice there meant that I could keep her at home and be there for her last breath,” Holly shared, her voice filled with gratitude.
Four years later, in 2020, Holly faced a similar situation with her father during the COVID-19 pandemic. At 84, after major surgery and unable to receive hospital visits from family, he was ready to come home. Holly knew exactly what to do and immediately called Delaware Hospice. “The Delaware Hospice staff was once again a huge support. They were here as much as I needed them,” said Holly. Her father was assisted by Delaware Hospice for five days before passing away peacefully in his sleep on July 4, 2020.
“When the time came, the staff was extremely supportive. They called the funeral home, and everything worked out wonderfully. They did not just come in and hand me a bottle of medicine and call it a day. They were there to answer my questions, comfort me, and assist me, and I am so grateful.”
Holly and her parents had always been close. They loved spending time together, traveling each summer, and creating treasured memories. By the time she turned 18, Holly had achieved the impressive feat of visiting every U.S. state, deepening her bond with her parents. Losing them both before she reached forty-five was a heartbreaking experience, but Holly found solace in knowing she wasn’t alone.
“Just because my parents were gone, Delaware Hospice was not. When our nurse walked out the door, it was not over. They are there after the fact to support you every step of the way.” After her parents passed, Holly received regular check-ins from Delaware Hospice ministers and counselors and appreciated the ongoing connection through emails, newsletters, and special event invitations.
Holly attends Delaware Hospice’s marquee event, Festival of Trees, each year and purchases a memorial ornament. She is even interested in volunteering very soon to lend a hand where possible. “I try to support Delaware Hospice in every way to show them the support they gave us.”
As Holly wiped a tear from her cheek, she jokingly mentioned how her mother, an outspoken person, would be proud of her for sharing her story. The crowd, filled with tearful eyes and nodding heads, stood in silent solidarity, reflecting the profound sense of community fostered by Delaware Hospice.
For those going through similar experiences, Delaware Hospice offers unwavering support, ensuring that no one faces their journey alone. Whether seeking comfort for a loved one, support during treatment, or help connecting with resources, Delaware Hospice is there every step of the way. Click here to learn about all our programs and services.
