Happy New Year- A Toast to 30 Years

Happy New Year- A Toast to 30 Years

I hope this holiday season, you were able to find moments of joy, laughter, and priceless moments with family and friends. As I sit down to reflect on the past year, I’m reminded of our current “Live every moment” campaign you may have recently seen. There have been significant moments at Gilchrist for which I’m grateful and proud:

Gilchrist’s Expansion of Luminis into Prince George’s County: This year, Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute – Gilchrist’s joint venture with regional healthcare provider Luminis – began to offer elder care and hospice care in Prince George’s County, Maryland’s second most populous subdivision with nearly one million residents. Through this innovative partnership, we are extending our reach to provide the highest quality counseling, support, and care to even more Marylanders with serious illnesses so they may live life to the fullest.

Patients Receiving Hospice Care: A total of 5,936 patients received hospice care, ensuring their comfort and dignity.

Grief Counseling and Support Services: We provided support to 7,870 individuals through grief counseling, support groups, workshops, and bereavement events, offering them guidance and solace during challenging times.

Volunteer Contributions: Our dedicated team of 454 volunteers generously donated 19,896 hours, providing support and a helping hand to those in need.

Volunteer Patient Visits: Our volunteers made 1,208 visits to patients, offering companionship and care to enrich their lives.

Veterans Saluted: We honored 232 veterans through our services, recognizing their sacrifices and offering them specialized care.

Music Therapy Services: A total of 2,476 patients received the benefits of music therapy, an innovative approach that enhances emotional and physical well-being.

As we welcome the arrival of 2024, I am both eager and optimistic. This year isn’t just another mark on the calendar; it’s a significant milestone in our journey. In 2024, Gilchrist is honored to be celebrating 30 years of commitment as a provider of serious illness and end-of-life care. It’s hard to believe that for three decades, Gilchrist has been enhancing the quality of life for patients throughout Maryland, ensuring that every moment is lived to its fullest, surrounded by care and comfort.

Moreover, our mission to care will continue to expand with the growth of Luminis. We are set to reach more patients and support more families than ever before. Our expansion is not just in numbers, but in the depth of care and support we provide.

I am also especially excited to share that this year, we are embracing the warmth of even more personal connections. We continue our transition back to in-person events, fostering deeper connections and meaningful experiences.

Thank you for being an integral part of our Gilchrist family. I wish you and your families a 2024 filled with peace, comfort, and moments of joy.

Warm Regards,

Cathy Hamel, President of Gilchrist

To learn more about Gilchrist, visit gilchristcares.org.