VNA Hospice NWI was honored to have Congressman Frank Mrvan visit the VNA Arthur B. and Ethel V. Horton Hospice Center on Monday, July 24 to learn about the variety of services provided by the nonprofit hospice throughout the Northwest Indiana community.
Congressman Mrvan's journey through the hospice care center allowed him to witness firsthand the care and support given to patients and their families during life's most delicate moments. During his visit, Congressman Frank Mrvan engaged in meaningful conversations with the dedicated team of healthcare professionals, which included nurses, aides, and volunteers. Through these discussions, he gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by non-profit hospice providers and the indispensable role VNA Hospice NWI plays in delivering comfort, dignity, and compassion to those in need.
One of the highlights of his visit was hearing heartwarming stories about families who have received care and support from VNA hospice. These testimonials deeply resonated with Congressman Mrvan, affirming the importance of accessible and high-quality end-of-life care services for the community.
"I've always known what hospice care meant, but until you come here and think about all the families and individuals who are quitting their jobs or retiring early to handle the stress of taking care of a loved one who is going through some sort of medical issue, you don't realize how important it is to know that something like palliative care exists. Now I can let my staff know and tell everyone I know so that we can be ambassadors for the community," shared Congressman Mrvan.
During his reflections after the visit, Congressman Frank Mrvan expressed profound admiration for VNA Hospice NWI's dedication and commitment to serving the Northwest Indiana region. He applauded their tireless efforts to ensure that individuals facing life-limiting illnesses receive the compassion and attention they deserve during such vulnerable times.
"It's always good to have a legislator who wants to come out and learn about your services, especially when you depend on federal funding, but the fact that it's Frank makes today even more meaningful because I truly believe that he cares about people. His past experience as a township trustee is unique, so when he comes out, he's not just doing it for a photo opportunity; he is genuinely interested in who we are, what we do, and the services we provide. He leaves you with the feeling that he is truly going to advocate and fight for you, and he does," expressed Bob Franko, CEO of VNA Hospice NWI.
Congressman Mrvan assured the VNA Hospice NWI staff that he would continue to advocate for nonprofit hospice care and fight for robust funding during budget and appropriation processes to ensure these essential programs receive the resources needed to serve the community's vulnerable population.
The visit concluded with a shared sense of gratitude, and VNA Hospice NWI pledged to continue collaborating with Congressman Frank Mrvan, welcoming him back to further educate and advocate for nonprofit hospices in the community.