Hospice workers experience
patients’ deaths on a regular basis. The frequency of these experiences can
sometimes cause the individuality of each death to be overshadowed by the
totality of them all. Al Poeppel, a hospice volunteer, has found a special way
to honor each of his departed patients during the Christmas season.
The outdoor Christmas memorial tree created by Poeppel is his labor of love. The decorated tree
celebrates his deceased patients, supports their families, and encourages
introspection among the general public admiring the impressive tree as they
drive by. Each tree ornament bears a deceased patient’s name that helps Poeppel
reflect on the times he shared with that person. Poeppel thinks families
appreciate knowing that their loved ones are remembered. He also hopes that the
tree reminds others of the importance of making the most of life.
Happy holidays to all of you. I hope 2013 brings you many rainbow smiles. In this video, you can view Poeppel’s amazing
Christmas tree and hear his heartwarming story.
Frances Shani Parker, Author
Becoming Dead Right: A
Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes
is available in paperback at many booksellers in America and several other
counries and in e-book form at
Amazon and Barnes and Noble booksellers.
I admire hospice workers especially when it is voluntary.
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