Patient Stories

Respiratory Patient Gets to Travel and Live the Best Life She Can

When Patricia Kolarik, 74, discussed transitioning to hospice care with her family, she shared her three, must-have wishes.  By providing a full spectrum of hospice care and support services, the Care Dimensions specialized respiratory care program has been able to support her wishes.

A Second Career and a Dream Come True: The Nurse Residency Program in Action

When Marjorie Lebowitz enrolled in North Shore Community College’s Nurse Education Program, she had a clear vision for her second career.  She wanted to be a hospice nurse case manager, and she credits her mother for giving her the initial inspiration to focus on hospice.

Local Philanthropic Family Donates to Support Others Who Need End-of-Life Care

Following her husband Fred's death at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in 2016, Sue Thorne of Manchester-by-the-Sea continues her family's commitment to support Care Dimensions' work and mission in caring for people with advanced illness.

18 Years of Support: Gloucester Resident Brought Tree of Lights Celebration to Cape Ann

Eighteen years ago, Tom Lattof of Gloucester met a local friend who worked as a hospice nurse for Care Dimensions.  Then and now, Tom serves on the Board of Directors of BankGloucester. 

His nurse friend asked Tom if he would help to bring the Care Dimensions Tree of Lights event to Cape Ann. Tom agreed, and this would be the start of a professional, personal and philanthropic relationship.

Appreciation of Support Spurs Donor to Honor Care Dimensions in Estate Plans

In the spring of 2016 the Didios lost two members of their family.  Within four days of each other, John and his mother, Jacqueline died at the Kaplan Family Hospice House. 

Two years later, Marisa Didio decided to honor her brother and her mother's memory by including Care Dimensions in her estate plans so that other families can benefit from the hospice experience. 

Community Volunteers’ Knitting, Sewing Bring Comfort to Hospice Patients

Community volunteers Henrietta Goodwin and Marilyn Brauss donate their talents to create prayer squares and quilts that are given to patients at Care Dimensions’ Kaplan Family Hospice House.

Committed to Volunteering, Making a Difference

Gail Thompson has been volunteering for Care Dimensions since 1980 and participates in the annual Walk for Hospice fundraiser.

From Hospital Nurse to Hospice Reiki Volunteer

Care Dimensions volunteer Joan Charette gives Reiki to patients at the Kaplan Family Hospice House to help them relax.

Son, Mom Pay it Forward at Grief Camp

Julie and her son Colin reflect on their experience at Care Dimensions Camp Stepping Stones and how they were inspired to volunteer.

How Volunteering for Hospice Changed My Life

Kristen DePasquale, Care Dimensions hospice volunteer, reflects on her experience.