Community Connections

On this weeks episode, Cole is joined by guest co-host Christina Davenport. We are honored to feature Kristie Hege who is the President of United Way of Davidson County. She comes on to discuss their mission, upcoming important dates, as well as give some background on the amazing work that Kristie and the United Way of Davidson County have been doing. For more information, to donate, or to get involved visit https://www.uwdavidson.org/  

This week, Cole and Josh are Joined by Chief Administrative Officer,  Aaron Holt, and Clinical Quality Assurance Analyst, Paige Overby. They come on to discuss how Hospice of Davidson County uses technology to enhance patient care. We also talk about how innovation is necessary to continue to improve the patient care experience. 

This week, Cole and Josh discuss and unexpected topic.  We look at the grief the hospice staff go through, and how the process loss.  We also Discuss relationships built with families in our communities, and how this can impact our amazing staff. 

On today's episode, Director of Community Relations, Christina Davenport joins us. She comes on to discuss the agency's status as a Not for Profit organization, and why that matters to Davidson County. for more information visit hospiceofdavidson.org

On this week's episode, Cole and Josh discuss the different hospice specific certifications many clinicians within the agency have obtained. We discuss the proccesses, and how that makes for a higher level of care for our patients and their families. 

Welcome to the 4th season of the Community Connections Podcast! On this weeks' episode, we are celebrating the recent achievement of becoming a 5 star hospice. We also talk about what that means for our patients, their families, and the community. Check out the care compare website for more information on the qulity of hospice services here in Davidson County: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/?providerType=HospiceFor more information on the podcast, please visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/resource-library/community-connections-podcast/

On this week's episode we discuss some upcoming events for Hospice Sabbath. Spiritual Counselor Miranda Lane, MDiv, joins us to discuss spirituality and loss, and how events such as these, help communities heal. https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/hospice-sabbath/

On this episode of Community Connections, Josh Proctor, Director of Clinical Services, joins us to discuss Congestive Heart Failure symptoms. We also dive into the importance of goals of care discussion, and healthcare providers role in this. 

This week, Cole chats with Uptown Lexington Executive Director, Travis Stewart. We discuss the upcoming "Uptown Wine Down"  happening on September 9th from 1-5pm. We also feature other upcoming fall/winter events in the community. For more information on these events, and how you can help this organization please visit: https://www.uptownlexingtonnc.com/

Fall Prevention Week is September 18th-22nd. Listen in as Clinical Educator, Jennifer King discuss Fall risk from the hospice perspective, and provide tips, and resources for fall risk factors. Visit https://ncfallsprevention.org/ for more information. 

On this week's episode, Cole is joined by Emma Hylton, MDiv. Emma discussed her role at Hospice of Davidson County and how Chaplain services play an integral role in the hospice care benefit. 

On this week's episode, we get back to our Hospice Readiness Series with Director of Provider Services, Elizabeth McNeil, NP. Elizabeth Discusses Cancer diagnoses and the barriers they present to patient's access to hospice care.

On this week's episode we discuss children & grief. Grief Counselor Emily Sullivan, MA, LCMHCA, joins us to discuss how grief can present in children through the lens of development. For more information of the Grief & Bereavement Services at Hospice of Davidson County, please visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/

For this week's episode, we take a break from our educational series to discuss upcoming events for Hospice of Davidson County. Kimberly Gleiser, Community Engagement Manager, joins us. We highlight the upsoming Ride for Angels on July 15th, and tease the Annual Gala on August 26th. Don't miss the call for art submissions related to the august event! For more information on all of the events visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/rfa/ & https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/art/

For this year's Nurses Week Episode, we feature 2 of our amazing RNs. Melissa Grant and Ashley Mills Join us to talk about their roles and their "why" for working at Hospice of Davidson County. Kaitlyn McFadden also comes on to discuss the unique roles of our nursing staff. 

On this week's episode, Jennifer Everhart, RN, CHPN,  joins as guest co-host. Jennifer is the Chief Clinical Officer at Hospice of Davidson County. We have a great conversation with Dr Rachel Warner who is an Assistant Professor of Surgery @ UF Health - Jacksonville. Dr Warner comes on to discuss recurring hospital admissions, and goals of care discussions. We look at how this is related to patients facing chronic, and terminal illnesses, and their readiness for hospice care. 

April 16th 2023 is National Healthcare Decisions Day! For this year, we brought on one of our Medical Social Workers, Crystal Waller. Crystal is also a Certified End-of-Life Doula. Crystal dives deep into some of the specifics on Healthcare Power of Attorney, discussions with patients and families, and the overall benefit of making your wishes and desires known for medical care. Hospice of Davidson County is participating in 4 events related to healthcare decision making. Feel free to reach out to the partner agency, or to Hospice of Davidson County @ (336) 475-5444, for more information. April 17 | 10am | Thomasville Senior Services Location April 21 | 12pm | Lexington Senior Services Location April 27 | 10am | Lexington Library Location April 28 | 11am | North Davidson Library Location

For this weeks episode we return to our diagnosis specific conversations. Facility Nurse Liaison Laura Fleming comes on to discuss COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and some of the challenges these patients ,and their families face. For more information on Hospice care please visit Hospiceofdavidson.org Hospice of Davidson County is participating in 4 events related to healthcare decision making. Feel free to reach out to the partner agency, or to Hospice of Davidson County @ (336) 475-5444, for more information. April 17 | 10am | Thomasville Senior Services Location April 21 | 12pm | Lexington Senior Services Location April 27 | 10am | Lexington Library Location April 28 | 11am | North Davidson Library Location

This week, Cole is Joined by Sophia Russell, MHA, MDiv. Sophia is the Executive Director of the Positive Wellness Alliance. She comes on to discuss the organization's services, and impact in the community, for those living with HIV/AIDS. For more information on their services or to get involved, visit: https://www.positivewellnessalliance.org/. You can also call them at: 336-248-4646

For this week's episode we start our series on Hospice appropriate patients with diagnosis of Alzheimer/Dementia. Megan Owens, RN, BSN, CHPN makes her way on to discuss her experiences as a Facility Nurse Case Manager. She gives us some great insight in what we see from this diagnosis and readiness for hospice. 

On this week's episode, Cole discusses Grief & Bereavement Counseling with Emily Sullivan MA, LCMHCA. Emily is a Grief Counselor with Hospice of Davidson County. She comes on to discuss some misconceptions surrounding grief, and highlight programs intended to help families and the community heal after a loss. 

Season 3 is back! on this week's episode Hospice of Davidson County's Medical Director Dr Lana Riemann, and Clinical Educator Jennifer King RN, BSN, CHPN join the podcast. They come on to discuss symptoms & signs near end-of-life. you can find more information on our website: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/resource-library/community-connections-podcast/

This week's episode is a unique listen into the perspectives from some of Hospice of Davidson County's wonderful staff. The Theme for National Hospice and Palliative Care Month is "Meeting you where you are", so we decided to ask staff what that means for them and their work. A special thank you to those staff for coming on the podcast, many of them for the first time. For more information on the care provided at Hospice of Davidson County visit: hospiceofdavidson.org

This week's episode is all about whats going on around Hospice of Davidson County and the Community! In this episode you will find all the detailed information you will need to know what about our upcoming events.  The holiday season is always an important time for the organization, as it recognizes the difficulties many in our community have after a loss. Grief effects us all differently, but we know that the holiday season is often a particularly difficult time.For more information or to contact us please visit hospiceofdavidson.org or call us at (336) 475-5444. Luminary and Ornament sales can be found at: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/events/Nov 20th is Hospice Sabbath, please reach out to us if you would like to participate. Dec 6th: Night of Reflection in Thomasville (near the Bandstand) Dec 8th Night of Reflection in Lexington (on the steps of the old courthouse) 

The guest on this week's episode is Laura Fleming, RN, BSN. Laura is the Facility Team Nurse Liaison at Hospice of Davidson County. She comes on to provide some insight into Hospice Services in Long-Term Care Facilities. She discusses some of the benefits of having hospice services for eligible patients and their families at end of life. To find out more about Hospice of Davidson County's services in Nursing Facilities please call (336) 475-5444 

On this week's episode Cole and Chelsie talk with Beth Rummage who is the Executive Director of The Life Center of Davidson County. Beth gives some great information on the programming, purpose, and upcoming events for the organization. To find out more about the amazing work of this organization, or to get you or a loved one connected to services you can  visit: https://www.lifecenterdavidson.com/ or call (336) 249-2155. 

This week Cole and Chelsie have a discussion with Julie McFadden BSN, RN.  She comes on the podcast to share her perspectives and experiences as a hospice nurse. Julie also shares about her journey on social media and how her passion for hospice sparked this new way to educate, connect, and engage. For more great information and content from Hospice Nurse Julie, you can find her at https://www.tiktok.com/@hospicenursejulieTo find out more information about Community Connections visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/resource-library/community-connections-podcast/

On this weeks episode, Cole and Chelsie sit down with Ryan Klaustermeier MSN, RN for a conversation surrounding his experiences in hospice work at the local, state, and national levels. Ryan is the Chair of the Next Generation Leadership Council, with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.  He is also the VP of Professional Services with AXXESS. He gives some great insight into how his work evolved into helping Hospice and Palliative care continue to grow and progress through advocacy and leadership. 

For this week's episode, Cole and Chelsie are joined by the Director of Provider Services with Hospice of Davidson County, Elizabeth McNeil, NP.  We discuss common forms of dementia and the symptoms, treatment, and caregiver concerns associated. Elizabeth has over 12 years experience helping patients and families in both inpatient and homecare settings. 

On this week's episode, Cole and Chelsie are joined by Megan Owens RN, CHPN. Megan is a Nurse Case Manager on the Facility Team at Hospice of Davidson County. She comes on to discuss respiratory symptoms in hospice patients. She discusses some treatments, causes, and helpful tips for caregivers to help make their loved ones comfortable. 

This episode is hosted by Cole Warner, and Hospice of Davidson County CEO, Laura Owen. This week's featured guest is the City of Lexington Mayor, Jason Hayes.  Mayor Hayes joins us to discuss the upcoming Health Equity Conference that is being hosted by the city on August 12th and 13th. He also gives us some great insight into his professional, and personal background that has shaped his values, and priorities as the newly elected Mayor. For more information on the conference visit, https://www.lexingtonnc.gov/   If you have any questions regarding the conference you can contact Dr Patricia Smyre via email,  PRSmyre@LexingtonNC.gov

For this weeks episode, Jennifer King  BSN, RN, CHPN, Clinical Educator, and Infection Control Officer for Hospice of Davidson County,  joins us to discuss confusion and delirium in hospice Patients. She gives us some insight into some of the issues surrounding the common symptoms at end-of-life. For more information on this topic as well as other hospice related issues, visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/resource-library/helpful-links/

*Extended Conversation* As a follow up to our episode on the Health Equity Conference, here is the extended conversation we had with Dr Patricia Smyre, on her work as the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer, Title XI Coordinator, and Human Relations Commission Liaison for the City of Lexington. She shares some insight into her role and work so far in the community. 

On this week's episode, we feature the upcoming Health Equity Conference, hosted by the City of Lexington.  Dr Patricia Smyre joins us to discuss the importance, and mission of this conference for our community. For more information please visit: https://www.lexingtonnc.gov/city-services/administration/diversity-equity-inclusion/health-equity-conference

Jennifer Everhart and Chelsie Scearce join the show to discuss the amazing work of the Certified Nursing Assistants at Hospice of Davidson County. This episode is coming out at the end of National Nursing Assistants Week, so we thought we would show our appreciation and provide some insight into their service to patients, families, and the community. 

On this week's episode, Brad Gaither and Kimberly Gleiser join the podcast to discuss the upcoming Ride for Angels event. This event is on July 16th, and is hosted by Hospice of Davidson County.  For more information, or to register visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/rfa/ .  you can also call (336) 475-5444 or fill out the contact form on the website. 

On this Week's Episode, Cole and Emmalee Speak with Chelsie Scearce, Volunteer Services Manager with Hospice of Davidson County. Chelsie comes on and discusses the importance of volunteers to the hospice mission and organization. If you would like more information on becoming a volunteer please visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/volunteer/ or call (336) 475-5444. 

It's National Nurses Week 2022! This week, we have our Nursing Directors on to talk about how Hospice of Davidson County nursing staff serves their community, patients, and their families. Their perseverance and adaptability makes such a difference in the lives of our patients. Thank you for all that you do! If you would like to share your experience with one of our nurses visit: https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/covid-19-support/ 

For this week, Emmalee and Cole talk with Emily Viverette MDiv. Emily is the Director of FaithHealth Chaplaincy and Education at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medicine. She provides incredible insight into the work chaplains do for their patients and staff in the hospital system. 

April 16th, 2022 is National Healthcare Decisions Day. In this episode Emmalee and Cole host a discussion with Jennifer King  RN and Katelyn Brady LCSWA , regarding healthcare planning, and advanced directives. For more information, or to start the process for your or a loved one head over to, https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/ or, https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/resource-library/helpful-links/

On this Week's episode, Cole and Emmalee talk with Crystal Waller about her recent certification as a Death Doula. Crystal is one of Hospice of Davidson County's Medical Social Worker, and has used this training to enhance her impact on hospice patients and families. 

March is National Social Work Month. To celebrate the amazing Medical Social Workers of Hospice of Davidson County, we are highlighting their important role within hospice care. As integral members of the care team they provide significant contributions to our patients and families. Emmalee Thomas, one of our Medical Social Workers, and co-host of the podcast, discusses her role, and some of the issues that patients and their families face at end of life.  

On this week's episode, Cole and Emmalee talk with Teresa McKeon. She is the Executive Director with The Arc of Davidson County. We have a great conversation about the work this organization does with those who have developmental disabilities. She gives some insight into the vast programming, and advocacy that is vital to their work. If you would like to find out more information on their programs, or organization you can visit www.arcdavidson.org  or call (336) 248-2842. 

On this week's episode, Emmalee and Cole talk to Ashley Phillips. Ashley is the Executive Director of Davidson County First Hope Ministries (Formerly Crisis Ministries).  She discusses the great work they do in our community, and some insight into the future of the organization. If you want to donate or get involved you can visit their website at http://dcfirsthope.org/  or call (336) 248-6684. 

February 3rd is National Women Physicians Day. For this year we host a couple of amazing physicians who have contributed their expertise to this podcast project. On this special episode of the Community Connections Podcast, Cole sits down with Dr Lana Riemann, and Dr Rachel Warner. Dr Riemann is the Chief Medical Officer at Hospice of Davidson County. Dr Warner is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Florida Health - Jacksonville.  We have a great discussion on advocacy, and diversity in medicine. They also provide us with their perspectives and approaches to their roles. 

On this weeks episode of Community Connections we revisit with the folks over at Senior Services of Davidson County. Christie Smith and Katie Sprayberry join us to discuss their updated programming, and outlook for 2022. For more information on volunteering or to take advantage of programs visit: https://www.co.davidson.nc.us/337/Senior-Services or call: 336-242-2290

Thanks for listening to this 1st episode of season 2! This week, Cole and Emmalee host Jennifer King & Josh Proctor. Jennifer is the Infection Control Officer, and Josh is the Director of Inpatient Services. We dive in deep on pain and symptom management for hospice patients. We discuss some of the more difficult topics, and provide an insight in the processes that are in place to provide comfort to this population. 

Season 2 launches on January 13th! We look forward to bringing you another year of the Community Connections Podcast 

For this week's episode Rick Johnson joins the Cole to discuss his work, and the services offered through the Veterans Service Office in Davidson County, NC.  If  you would like more information,  have questions, or want to get in touch with Rick, please reach out by phone. (336) 242-2037, Or email him at Ricky.Johnson@DavidsonCountyNC.gov   Hospice of Davidson County is proud to partner with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through the We Honor Veterans program.  As a level 3 partner, Hospice of Davidson County provides Veteran centric care through respectful inquiry, compassionate listening, and grateful acknowledgment. In recognizing the unique needs of America's Veterans and their families, our goal is to accompany and guide them through their life stories toward a more peaceful end of life journey with the best care available. If you would like more information on the services provided by Hospice of Davidson County, please visit:  https://hospiceofdavidson.org/veteran-resources/

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. For this episode, Cole and Emmalee Speak with Amy Leonard and Kaitlyn McFadden about the Hospice of Davidson County Services. Amy and Kaitlyn, gives us a look at how the organization cares for its patients and families on a day to day basis. 

This episode marks the 25th full length podcast for Community Connections. Emmalee and Cole take a look back at our previous episodes, and discuss the impact of this project for the them. Thank you to the community for the generous support and we look forward to bringing you more episodes!