#United States #Ann Arbor #NorthStar Care #Beads of Courage #hospice support

NorthStar Care Community® and Beads of Courage® Unite to Launch Innovative Hospice Support Initiative

In a heartfelt move aimed at enhancing the lives of those navigating the complex emotional landscape of hospice care, NorthStar Care Community has announced a significant collaboration with Beads of Courage, Inc. This partnership introduces the Beads of Courage® NorthStar Bead, a special symbol created to honor the bravery of individuals entering hospice care, now accessible to over 200 children’s hospitals across the United States.

Partnership Overview

NorthStar Care Community is renowned for its commitment to improving access to quality care for individuals facing serious illnesses. Their collaboration with Beads of Courage, a leading nonprofit known for its innovative arts-in-medicine programs, aims to bring comfort and emotional support to children, teens, and their families experiencing healthcare challenges. The Beads of Courage NorthStar Bead is a unique, handcrafted item designed to recognize the courageous journeys of those transitioning into hospice care.

The NorthStar Bead will become part of the Beads of Courage Flagship Program, where each bead represents important milestones, treatments, or moments of bravery throughout a child's healthcare journey. This partnership enriches the experiences of families by providing a tactile reminder of love, support, and compassion during difficult times.

Symbolizing Compassion and Strength

Patrick Miller, president and CEO of NorthStar Care Community, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "We are honored to partner with Beads of Courage to bring this powerful experience to those we serve. The BOC NorthStar Bead symbolizes compassion, dignity, and strength, acknowledging the bravery of individuals and families navigating hospice care. This collaboration reflects our mission to provide personalized, mission-driven care that uplifts and supports our community."

Introducing the Carry a Bead® Initiative

Along with the introduction of the BOC NorthStar Bead, the Carry a Bead® initiative invites public engagement as individuals, groups, and communities carry the bead during significant personal occasions—be it a marathon, hike, or any memorable event. Participants can then return the bead with a note of encouragement, which will be presented to individuals in hospice care, creating a network of support and connection.

Jean Gribbon, the founder of Beads of Courage, shared her enthusiasm for this initiative, noting, "Every bead tells a story of courage, and the BOC NorthStar Bead will honor the profound courage of those in hospice care. We invite the public to join us through our Carry a Bead initiative, spreading love and encouragement to those who need it most during hospice care."

A Movement of Solidarity

The Carry a Bead initiative and the BOC NorthStar Bead are parts of the larger Life’s Big Moments campaign, which aims to foster dialogue and awareness about the realities of end-of-life hospice care, while also raising essential funds to support NorthStar Care Community members. This campaign is centered around bringing light and conversation to what is often a difficult subject, encouraging people to think about the beauty of life's journey.

The BOC NorthStar Bead will be available at participating NorthStar Care Community partner organizations and selected hospitals that are part of the Beads of Courage network. More information on the Carry a Bead initiative can be found online at Beads of Courage and NorthStar Care Community.

Conclusion

This collaboration stands as a testament to the spirit of community, illustrating how collective efforts can enhance the emotional well-being of individuals and families navigating the complexities of serious illness. NorthStar Care Community and Beads of Courage are not merely providing support; they are fostering a culture of care that addresses the profound challenges faced during life’s most critical moments. Corporations, organizations, or individuals wishing to contribute can participate in the Life’s Big Moments campaign to further the cause of compassion and support for hospice care.

For those interested in supporting or learning more about this essential initiative, further details are available through the respective organizational websites, providing vital resources for those in need of care and community support.