Homeland Center Resident Recalls Life of Family and Friends as She Nears 100th Birthday

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Sara Slothower and her husband WilburStrong bonds with family and friends are a common theme in Sara Slothower’s life. Loving and supportive parents shaped her childhood, and brought her to Harrisburg where she met her husband and raised her family. Friendships formed through her volunteer work ultimately brought her to Homeland Center where she has lived for the past three years. In October, Sara will celebrate her 100th birthday.

Sara grew up in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, a small town close to Pittsburgh. She was the eldest of four children and fondly remembers attending a small country school and playing baseball in her youth.

“I had wonderful parents,” Sara recalls. “We loved swimming and having picnics in the summer.”

Her fondest memories are her family’s annual visits to Kennywood, a popular amusement park.

“I rode the merry-go-round and ate ice cream all day,” Sara remembers. “It was the highlight of my summer.”

At 17, Sara moved to Harrisburg after her father took on a new job. She completed her senior year at John Harris High School, now known as Harrisburg High School. Sara remembers the challenges of adapting to an urban school after growing up in the country.

“My father often reminded me of the opportunities available at a larger school,” Sara adds. “I struggled to adjust until I met my husband Wilbur.”

Sara Slothower and two of her children, Janet and TomAfter marrying, Sara and Wilbur moved to Paxton Street where they raised their children Janet, Tom and Richard (not pictured).

Like her childhood, Sara loved summers with her husband and children. The family owned a cottage in Stoney Creek. Wilbur would spend weekends at the cottage and return to work while Sara and her children enjoyed the outdoors.

When her children were in school, Sara went to work at Sear’s Service Center and then Feller’s Store in Harrisburg.

Sara’s love of people led her to volunteering at Dauphin Manor. For 10 years, she volunteered at the gift shop and helped plan birthday parties for the residents. Sara enjoyed selecting the perfect cakes and making gifts to ensure residents felt special on their birthday.

While volunteering, Sara met Barry Ramper II, now Homeland Center President and CEO. At the time, Barry was Administrator of Dauphin Manor. Sara and Barry became friends and stayed in touch over the years.

In 1997, Sara’s beloved Wilbur died. She lived independently for years, always making important life decisions with confidence. At 95, she decided to stop driving and at 97 chose to move to Homeland. Knowing Barry made the transition easy.

At Homeland, Sara enjoys playing bingo, pokeno and the occasional game of pinochle. Her most cherished time is spent with her daughter, Janet, and son, Tom. Her son Richard lives in Georgia, but makes regular calls to stay in touch. In addition to her children, Sara has four grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Sara Slothower in a car next to a Homeland billboardThis spring, Sara and Barry were featured on billboards for Homeland Center. For Mother’s Day, Tom drove his mother around Harrisburg to see the billboards. Sara proudly displays the photo used on the billboards in her room.

As she approaches her 100th birthday, Sara is grateful for a life filled with family and friends.

From her years of planning birthday parties for her children and the residents of Dauphin Manor, Sara knows what she wants for her 100th birthday celebration.

“Carrot cake with cream cheese icing and vanilla ice cream,” Sara says with a smile. “Cake with my family would be a perfect birthday.”

Homeland Center has a 150-year tradition of caring for residents like family. Located in Dauphin County, Homeland is a five-star skilled nursing and personal care facility. Since opening its doors in 1867, Homeland has served thousands of individuals and families. Today, 145 residents call it home.

Running for a Good Cause

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Heroes for Homeland Hospice 5K4th Annual Heroes for Homeland Hospice 5K a Success!

On Saturday, June 9, runners and walkers of all ages and abilities laced up their sneakers for the 4th Annual Heroes for Homeland Hospice 5K at City Island in Harrisburg.

The event brought together nearly 100 runners who enjoyed the course along the Susquehanna Riverfront, as well as Homeland employees, volunteers and individuals who have lost a loved one.

Running for a Good Cause

For Jen Phillips and her family, the event was a chance to honor her father, Bob, who died in 2015. Jen’s family proudly wore “Team Bob” badges on their shirts with a photo of her father.

“Homeland was accommodating of my father’s needs,” Jen says. “After he died, they followed up with our family and offered bereavement support.”

Through the grieving process, Jen’s mother, Ann Phillips, has become a Hospice volunteer to help others during their time of grief.

Padget 243Homeland Hospice provides bereavement support through phone calls, mailings, one-on-one consultations and support groups up to 13 months after the death of a loved one. Support groups offer self-awareness, healing, helping others, a sense of community and coping skills.

For many Homeland employees, the event was a family affair. Debbie Klinger, RN and Director of Homeland Hospice, enjoyed spending time with her granddaughters, Morgan and Padget, at the 5K.

“I like to spend time with my grandmother at the race,” Padget says. “Plus, the money goes to help people.”

Padget, who is seven years old, is a veteran racer. This was her third 5K for Homeland Hospice. She predicted the course would take her one hour, but she finished it in less than 46 minutes, a personal best for the young runner. Padget placed third in the 14 and younger age group.

Finding Strength and Friendships Through Women’s Luncheon Series

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“The clouds are starting to part thanks to this great network of support,” Cathy remarks at a recent women’s luncheon provided by Homeland Hospice. “We understand each other because we’re all going through the same thing.”

attendees at the homeland hospice women's luncheonCathy has attended the women’s luncheon series since it was launched last year. She learned about the monthly luncheons while participating in Homeland’s six-week bereavement support group.

Homeland Hospice provides bereavement support through phone calls, mailings, one-on-one consultations and support groups up to 13 months after the death of a loved one. Support groups offer self-awareness, healing, helping others, a sense of community and coping skills.

Cathy credits Homeland’s support, and the positive attitudes of her “luncheon friends,” with helping her cope with the death of her husband.

“After the luncheon in April, I felt so good I encouraged a friend from the luncheon to book a cruise with me,” Cathy adds. “We’re heading to Bermuda!”

At the luncheon in May, attendees talked about their challenges and joys during the past month and plans for the coming month. Returning attendees, like Cathy, helped welcome new guests to the group.

“The first time I came to a luncheon, I didn’t know anyone,” Peggy says. “I was sad and lost. I didn’t know how to start the conversation about who I was going to be, but everyone understood.”

“These are my people,” Peggy adds with a laugh.

This shared understanding of grief makes the women’s luncheon series a dynamic time for women to navigate their journey in a safe and supportive space. No topic is off limits and everyone has an opportunity to share.

At the recent luncheon, attendees laughed when telling a favorite story of a loved one, as well as discussed poignant topics, like donating their deceased spouses’ clothing to charity. Whatever the subject, all voices were heard and supported.

“This is a place where you can talk about the difficult topics no one wants to discuss,” Peggy adds. “We share our ups and downs.”

At the end of the luncheon, Brian Medkeff-Rose, M.Div., M.A., Bereavement Counselor at Homeland Hospice reminded attendees about the process of grief.

“We never stop grieving,” Brian says. “Transformation is part of the process and we’re here for you each step of the way.”

The Women’s Soup and Salad Luncheons are held the third Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Isaac’s Grill at the West Shore Plaza.

Homeland Hospice’s bereavement support program is available to the bereaved of Homeland’s patients as well as anyone in the community who is experiencing grief.

To learn more, please contact Brian Medkeff-Rose at Homeland Hospice at (717) 221-7890.

 

Sharing Memories Brings Comfort at Memorial Picnic

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rocks painted for homeland's memorial picnic“My husband used to give me the first wildflower he saw each spring,” remarks a widow from a Homeland Hospice bereavement group. “Some years it was a dandelion.”

Fond memories of a loved one can bring solace and strength during the grieving process. Sharing memories with others helps us understand we are not alone in our journey.

Homeland Hospice provides bereavement support through phone calls, mailings, one-on-one consultations and support groups up to 13 months after the death of a loved one. Support groups offer self-awareness, healing and a sense of community, with individuals entering as strangers and often leaving as friends.

The Homeland Hospice family – including support group members, staff and volunteers – recently gathered to celebrate this special bond at the Homeland Hospice Annual Memorial Picnic in Enola. During the event, support group members each shared what they miss most about their loved ones.

Sisters Patty and Sheryl fondly remember their stepfather, Joe, as a proud veteran and a gentleman. He often spoke about his experiences on a B-52 aircraft during World War II and was a resident of Homeland Center when he died at age 97.

During Joe’s time at Homeland, staff members took him to New Cumberland Army Depot to tour a B-52 aircraft, just like the one he flew. Patty and Sheryl remember Joe’s excitement and happiness during this visit.

“He toured the entire plane and shook hands with everyone there,” Patty said.

Memories like this help sustain the sisters through their grief. They find comfort in sharing their remembrances with others who have similar experiences. Both sisters have participated in Homeland’s six-week bereavement support group program. Sheryl also attends a ladies luncheon held the third Friday of each month at Isaac’s Grill at the West Shore Plaza.

“Looking around the room, I know everyone has a story to tell,” Sheryl said. “It’s comforting to know how much Homeland cares about grieving families.”

At the close of the picnic, Brian Medkeff-Rose, M.Div., M.A., bereavement counselor at Homeland Hospice reminded guests that they are not alone.

“Everyone here has something in common,” Brian said, “We have all lost a loved one and understand the grieving experience.”

Homeland Hospice’s bereavement support program is available to the bereaved of Homeland’s patients as well as anyone in the community who is experiencing grief.

To learn more, please contact Brian Medkeff-Rose at Homeland Hospice at 717-221-7890.

Hospice Volunteers: Treasured Heroes to Those They Assist

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heart graphic reading homeland volunteers careFrom running an errand for a grieving family to providing assistance at bereavement support group meetings, volunteers are an integral part of Homeland Hospice.

They graciously share their time and compassion. They are deeply committed to making sure hospice patient and their families have a network of support. They are always quick to smile and give a reassuring hug when it’s needed most.

They come from diverse parts of our community. Homeland Hospice volunteers are teens, working adults, retirees and veterans – all dedicated to helping patients and families make the most of every precious moment together.

“Our volunteers are treasured heroes to those they assist and to the entire Homeland family,” says Leanne Porterfield, Coordinator of Volunteers at Homeland Hospice. “They go above and beyond in service to grieving families. This includes personal support and behind-the-scenes activities. Their actions speak louder than words.”

Homeland Hospice and Homeland Center recently honored volunteers at the Volunteer Appreciation luncheon.”

“We deeply appreciate your commitment to choosing to use the most valuable commodity you have – your time – in the interest of serving others,” Homeland Center President and CEO Barry S. Ramper II told volunteers at the event.

Homeland, which has a 150-year tradition of caring for patients like family, is growing – and so is its need for hospice volunteers.

Homeland is seeking volunteers to support patients and families in Dauphin, Cumberland, Perry, York, Lebanon and Lancaster counties.

Eighteen individuals joined Homeland’s volunteer team last year to help support more patients and families across Central Pennsylvania, bringing the total number of volunteers to 54. They generously provided 2,407 hours of service.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Homeland Hospice, please call us at 717-221-7980.

A Career of Compassion

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Brian croppedEmployee Spotlight on Brian Medkeff-Rose

Brian Medkeff-Rose, M.Div., M.A., Bereavement Counselor at Homeland Hospice, found his true calling 26 years ago while attending a spiritual retreat in Washington, D.C.

“I was called to full-time ministry,” Brian says. “That became my career path and I never looked back.”

Brian graduated from the Methodist Theological School in Delaware, Ohio. He was ordained by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and obtained his clinical pastoral education from Bethesda Hospital in Ohio, which prepared him to work in acute care, outpatient care and long-term care, as well as elder services, home health and hospice care.

Brian’s clinical pastoral work led him to Harrisburg and, ultimately, to Homeland Hospice.

“Homeland is where I belong,” Brian says. “I value our team approach to care. Social workers, physicians, nurses’ aides, volunteers – we all work together to help those in need.”

As a bereavement and spiritual counselor, Brian often finds that an “out-of-the-box” approach is what helps create a path forward for individuals experiencing loss. Discovering that approach involves truly getting to know the people he supports – and the ways in which their loss is affecting them.

When counseling a husband who lost his wife, for example, Brian learned the man was struggling to bring himself to go grocery shopping and cook meals for his family.

“Preparing meals was a constant reminder of his grief,” Brian says.

Seeking a creative approach to help his client, and others in mourning who are facing similar challenges, Brian collaborated with a dietician at Homeland Hospice to develop a workshop on healthy eating during the grieving process. Participants received cooking ideas for one and tips on preparing meals for children. The workshop was such a success that future sessions are being planned.

While Brian enjoys counseling adults, he holds a special place in his heart for children.

Brian was 15 years old when his mother died. He has a personal appreciation for the care and attention children and teens need – not only after a loved one dies, but before an expected loss as well.

“Homeland offers pre-bereavement counseling especially for children and teens,” Brian says. “For young people, this service can be just as important as grief counseling after the death of a loved one.”

Homeland Hospice’s bereavement support programs are available to the bereaved of Homeland’s patients as well as anyone in the community who is experiencing grief. Group meetings are held on a rotating schedule throughout the year.

If you have questions, please contact Brian Medkeff-Rose at Homeland Hospice at (717) 221-7890.