History of Hospice of Holland

In January of 1982, Hospice of Holland cared for its first patient. Since then, Hospice of Holland has cared for approximately 6,700 patients and families in the greater Holland area. None of this would be possible without the support of our community, and the vision of those who worked to create our organization.

The modern Hospice movement began in London, England in the late 60's. Dr. Cicely Saunders, a physician and social worker, is credited with its beginnings. Dr. Saunders worked with many people who were dealing with terminal illness and end-of-life issues and she found that they had many fears. Common to all were the fear of pain and the fear of loneliness. Feeling that this was significant, she began hospice care for her patients in St. Christopher's Hospital in London.

"Hospice" is a well-chosen name for end-of-life care. During Medieval times "hospices" lined the frequent traveled roadways. They were a place to rest for the weary traveler.

Dr. Saunders created a home-like setting within the hospital. Visitation restrictions were lifted. Visitors, including pets, could visit and stay as often as they wished and at anytime of the day that they chose. Patients were encouraged to bring in their favorite chairs, pillows, pictures and afghans to make their rooms as much like home as possible.

Pain was especially addressed to find the right medication in the proper amounts to control the pain for a 3-4 hour period. Once the level of medication was determined, it was given routinely, at proper intervals around the clock so that pain could actually be controlled.

In 1970, the first hospice opened in the United States in Hartford, CT. They discovered that, with the professional support of nurses, counselors and volunteers, patients would prefer to live at home while under hospice care. This has become a cornerstone of the Hospice philosophy.

In the late 70's hospice programs were starting to be developed in Michigan. A concerned group of Holland Area residents, with a passion and commitment to start a program, met for nearly a year. With the help of many individuals and support of the Directors of Holland Hospital and the local chapter of the American Cancer Society they signed the Incorporation papers in April of 1981. The office (a desk and a few chairs) was in the basement of the Good Samaritan office on east 16th Street.

That year was a busy one. Policies and programs were developed, the volunteer curriculum was written, 20 volunteers were trained and the Executive Director, Marian deVries was hired. Dr. Jerome Wassink accepted the Medical Director position, Sandy Byrne, RN the Patient Care Coordinator and Betty Jo Bell, the Volunteer Coordinator. Each of them accepted the positions as volunteers.

The first patient was admitted in January of 1982. With the help of a major gift from the Donnelly Corporation, Hospice of Holland cared for 20 patients and their families during that year.

In 1986, Hospice of Holland moved its location to "The Blue House" on 8th street. There, the organization grew steadily. Eventually, the nurses were working out of the basement of the Chamber of Commerce across the street while the rest of the staff continued to work in the blue house.

In 1994, through the generous contributions of our community, Hospice of Holland moved into its own building at 270 Hoover Blvd. It now employs over 70 people and has over 300volunteers. This is possible, in part, because of the great beginning Hospice of Holland was given.

It was a very solid beginning because of those who were so committed to their passion and belief that people facing end of life deserved to spend their final months with dignity and comfort. Hospice of Holland remains committed to that vision with a renewed passion and commitment for excellence in hospice care and services.