Grand View Hospice Manager and Volunteer Receive Statewide Awards

Hospice Manager Judith Herron of Reading was awarded the Nancy Bohnet Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Hospice Care. Established in memory of the founding member and former president of PHN, the award recognizes an individual of high integrity and honesty focused on what is best for the patients. Doris Vache of Souderton received the “Heart of Hospice” Award, which recognizes a volunteer who demonstrates exemplary generosity and spirit toward the hospice community. Hospice provides nursing and other health care services for terminally ill patients.

Herron has been the Manager of Grand View Hospice for the past seven years. During her tenure, Herron has doubled the hospice’s census and has introduced new treatment options for patients. She educates the medical and local community about palliative and hospice care. Palliative care is focused on providing the patient comfort and controlling the symptoms of the illness, including pain control.“

Judy exemplifies her passion for Hospice through the manner in which she manages her Hospice Team along with the devotion that she displays in caring for both the patient and family,” said Administrative Assistant Gloria Andrew.

Vache has volunteered for Grand View Hospice since her retirement in 1994. Following the death of her husband Bill in 1998, she helped to develop, organize and facilitate a “Networkers” support group for individuals bereaved more than 13 months. Continuing to support the bereavement program, Vache also works with patients directly, helps train new volunteers and assists in the office. Vache has contributed more than 2,600 hours of volunteer service.

“She is a quiet, caring presence to her families never seeking her own agenda – only giving from the heart,” said Volunteer Coordinator Joanne Day in her nomination letter. “She is not afraid to follow more difficult cases; with her quiet humor and selfless giving she conscientiously goes about her work.”

A trusted leader in palliative, end of life care since 1981, Grand View Hospice offers personalized services to terminally ill patients and families in their homes, personal care and assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Directed by the patient’s physician, services include skilled nursing, physical, occupational and speech therapy, medical social work, pastoral care, volunteer support and medical social work. Working as a team, the hospice caregivers address the physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of terminally ill patients and their families.

Grand View Hospital Public Relations (215-453-4699)