ome
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Growing up, children often dream of becoming
an astronaut, professional athlete or a movie star.
As they grow older, the dreams of fame and fortune
now have morphed into wanting to make a difference. For some they are compelled to pursue a
career in education or public service; for others
they are drawn to pursue a career in medicine.
In July 2013, Jennifer Hendrickson, walked into
the home and lives of Shelby and Dorothy
Rambo. Jennifer is a certified nursing assistant and
the CMH director of hospice volunteers and
H.O.P.E. -- Helping Others and Providing
Encouragement. As a hospice CNA, Jennifer, who
has worked for CMH for 10 years, has performed
this assignment numerous times before; however,
she did not realize how this family would make
such an undeniable impact in her life.
Years before their meeting, retired U.S. military
veteran Shelby Rambo had been diagnosed with
numerous chronic conditions. After years of doctor
appointments, repeat admissions to the hospital,
long-term care facilities and rehabilitation programs,
Shelby decided to no long seek treatment. CMH
Hospice was called to continue his care in the
comfort of his own home.
Twice a week, Jennifer traveled to the Urbana,
Mo., home and provide Shelby with the personal
and medical care he needed to stay comfortable.
What started out as a routine visit soon became
the highlight of Jennifer’s job. “Every time I
would visit, Shelby asked that I join him and watch
the Price is Right,” Jennifer laughed. “We agreed
that had the contestants listened to us, they would
have done a lot better.” Eventually, Shelby became
a grandfather figure to Jennifer.
“Shelby was so much fun to be around. One
time, he brought out old photos and medals he
had received from the war. He had so much pride
in serving in the military,” recalled Jennifer. With
the help of Jim Friend, CMH Hospice and numerous phone calls, Shelby was presented with his
additional medals.
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Volume 1, Issue 1
As time passed and Shelby’s illnesses progressed,
Jennifer began visiting more frequently. Jennifer
helped with grocery shopping and other household tasks, but mainly went to spend time with
Shelby and Dorothy. “For his birthday I made him
his favorite meal -- corn beef and cabbage with rolls
and cherry pie. That was all he wanted from me,”
she recalled.
On Feb. 17, 2015, Jennifer knew Shelby’s illness
was critical and his time on earth was growing
shorter. She visited Shelby and Dorothy, and the
following morning, while Jennifer was comforting
Dorothy, Shelby took his final breath. He was at
peace, surrounded by his wife and his best friend,
Jennifer, who he had come to love so dearly.
Jennifer still keeps in touch with Dorothy and
regularly calls her for follow-up. “I cannot sing
hospice’s praises enough,” shares Dorothy. “You
provided us with so much -- I can’t thank you
enough for what you have done for my family.”
CMH Hospice provides professional medical
care and emotional and spiritual support for patients diagnosed with terminal illnesses and for
their caregivers. CMH Hospice volunteers are an
important part of the CMH Hospice program.
Volunteers help caregivers with tasks such as
running errands, helping out with light chores, or
making small repairs around the home. If you
would like to become a volunteer for CMH
Hospice or H.O.P.E, contact CMH Hospice at
417-326-3585 or the CMH Information Center at
417-328-6010 or 888-328-6010.