It is Never too Late to Say ‘Thank You’ to Our Nation’s Veterans: Even at the End of Life
Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on November 11. This is a special day to salute the people who have bravely served our country in the military.
Veterans have made profound sacrifices in defense of freedom, and they deserve our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Honoring our Veterans includes supporting them throughout their entire lives, especially at the end.
As our nation marks Veterans Day, Pathways has deepened its commitment to increase Veterans’ access to specialized, compassionate, high-quality care.
In collaboration with the VA, Pathways is a four- star partner of the We Honor Veterans program. Through this program, we have provided education and training to our staff, the community and our referral partners to raise awareness of the unique needs of our nation’s Veterans who are facing a life-limiting illness.
Through our We Honor Veterans program, Pathways can accompany and guide Veterans and their families toward a more peaceful ending. And in cases where there might be some specific needs related to the Veteran’s military service, combat experience or other traumatic events, our care teams will find tools to help support those they are caring for.
There is also something that all of us can do to honor and serve our Veterans – that is to say, “Thank You.” Not just on November 11 but – all year long.
Ask your friends, neighbors, co-workers, and others in your community whether they have served in the military (you may be surprised how many have)—and thank those who have served for their sacrifice.
A generation of World War II and Korean War Veterans are facing end-of-life care decisions now, and they are quickly being followed by younger Vietnam War Veterans, many of whom are confronting serious illnesses at an even earlier age.
It surprises many Americans to learn that every day, 2,000 Veterans die. That is more than 730,000 Veterans every year – or 25 percent of all the people who die in this country annually.
The liberty that we, as Americans, enjoy comes at a price paid by these valiant men and women. Let each of us make sure we do our part to recognize and support them throughout their lives.
If you know a Veteran who needs the special care hospice and palliative care brings to people facing serious and life-limiting illness, please reach out and help them learn more about care options. Information is available on our website at https://pathways-care.org/veterans-services/.
To all our nation’s Veterans – Thank You.