The caregivers of The Elizabeth Hospice help their patients live each moment to the fullest by providing experiences that bring meaning and joy to their life.
When Sergio, a hospice patient in his early 30s, shared his wish to marry his girlfriend, the clinical care team quickly moved into action. And while the guidelines established to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic have compelled many people to reschedule their wedding, postponement wasn’t an option for this couple given Sergio’s life-limiting medical condition.
Maggie Effinger, medical social worker for The Elizabeth Hospice, assumed the role of wedding coordinator. She assisted the bride, Lupita, in identifying all the things she needed – including a wedding dress and wedding rings, worked with team members to secure flowers and food, and enlisted John Portenga, a chaplain with The Elizabeth Hospice, to perform the ceremony. Even though members of The Elizabeth Hospice’s care team weren’t able to attend the event because of social distancing restrictions, they donated the funds to cover the expenses. “At The Elizabeth Hospice, our goal is to do everything possible to make our patient’s dreams come true,” said Maggie. “Sergio and Lupita’s wedding was a marvelous event. What an honor it was for us to fulfill Sergio’s wish to marry the love of his life!”