As we are all finding our way through this very strange and often difficult period, I wanted to share with you some meaningful words from our Poetry guru, the amazing
Perie Longo
. Perie has worked with clients at Hospice of Santa Barbara for nearly 2 decades now and her poetry groups are among the most powerful at Hospice of Santa Barbara. She is also the former Poet Laureate of Santa Barbara. Hopefully, you will find comfort in her words and, perhaps, inspiration to write your own poetry.
We at Hospice of Santa Barbara strongly encourage self-care during this time; whether it’s reading or writing poetry, creating art, mediation, yoga or other exercise...whatever works for you. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other.
Be well,
David Selberg
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Poetry Therapy and Isolation During COVID-19
by Perie Longo, PhD, MFT, Bereavement Counselor
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“I read [poetry] not only to feel connected to the world, but to remember that people have managed to make incredible poems out of deep suffering. Just that simple fact gives me hope.”
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Poetry has had a varied reputation throughout history beginning with the oral tradition in ancient times, the chant having the power to heal. More recently authors have written articles and books about if poetry matters and why. Then 9/11 happened and our idea of national security shrunk. I remember one newscaster interviewed Billy Collins, then Poet Laureate of the United States, and asked what poem he would recommend. At first he said, the psalms, then added, the poem “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver. I still hear her words that were heard over the radio across the country. “Tell me about your despair, and I will tell you mine. Meanwhile the world goes on…
Meanwhile the wild geese, high in the clean blue air, are heading home again.”
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Thank YOU to our HSB Volunteers, Westerlay Orchids, and
Dream Foundation's Flower Empower Program
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On Friday, June 5
th
, 12 HSB Volunteers delivered over 120 orchid plants to HSB patients, clients and staff. HSB volunteers practiced physical distancing, with masks and each holding an orchid. Our volunteers were ecstatic to make these deliveries and add a little brightness to every recipient’s day.
A HUGE thank you to our volunteers,
Westerlay Orchids
, and
Dream Foundation’s Flower Empower Program
.
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Resources from our Community Education Team
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Caring for Caregivers during COVID-19
by HSB's Patient Care Services Team
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We at Hospice of Santa Barbara know that caregivers are under a heavy burden these days and we are here to help counteract caregiver burnout. During the increased stress of this time of physical distancing, caregivers continue in the emotionally and physically tiring work of taking care of a loved one whose health is declining. They are not getting the respite care they rely on, friends and volunteers can no longer come for a few hours to give them a break. In home support care has been cut or discontinued.
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Parenting After Loss by Sharon Vineall
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For those who have lost a loved one recently, or long ago, some of the feelings connected with loss of normal due to the pandemic may be particularly difficult.
We may find ourselves having “old feelings.” The feelings may be combined with sensations in the body – such as tightness, achiness, agitation, or heaviness. These may remind us of yet other troubles and experiences we’ve been through.
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Making Space for Feelings
(as a way of strengthening sense of self)
by Kolmi Majumdar
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Grief Support Groups via Zoom
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Please note:
Space is limited. Each participant must complete registration with HSB prior to group participation. No drop-ins please. Groups are subject to cancellation based on low registration.
To register, please contact our Intake Coordinator at 805-563-8820 ext. 110 or email
intake@hospiceofsb.org
. All groups are free of charge.
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Pet Loss Support Group
Wednesday afternoons (4 weeks)
Beginning July 8
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For those who are grieving the loss of their beloved animal companion. This support group via Zoom will be led by
Liz LaCasto, LMFT
.
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Art for Healing Workshop
Saturday, July 11
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This workshop led by
Valerie Moore-Altavilla, LCSW
will be via Zoom and is a creative outlet to deepen the process of remembering and honoring your loved one.
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Testing is by appointment only. Insurance information will be collected when you register, but no co-pay required. If you do not have insurance, the State of California will pay for your test. Please bring your identification, if you have one.
Everyone is eligible to apply for screening. Testing sites will be operational five (5) days per week from 7 am – 7 pm. Days and times for appointments will be adjusted based on community need.
Request a community-based testing appointment:
If you need help making an appointment, please contact the Santa Barbara County Call Center at 1 (833) 688-5551 Monday through Friday 9:30 am – 5:30 pm.
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During this uncertain time, you may feel pulled to get your financial affairs in order. HSB can help.
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Now might feel like a good time to sort out your will or estate plan. An estate plan is helpful for everyone, but it can be confusing to know how to begin. Hospice of Santa Barbara's own Judy Goodbody can help you get started.
Judy is a registered Tax Preparer who has been helping people with tax and estate planning for 25 years. This
free service
is available to all HSB volunteers, clients, donors, staff, or anyone in the community who needs help.
In observance of physical distancing practices, Judy will be available over the phone or through the secure video chat service Zoom. Contact Judy Goodbody for your free and confidential assistance at (805) 770-7119 or
jgoodbody@hospiceofsb.org
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Judy Goodbody, CFRE, CRTP
Planned Giving Officer
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Thank you for all that you do to support our work!
It is a remarkable privilege to witness the difference we make for those we serve on a daily basis. It is only through your generosity that we can accomplish all that we do and will in the future.
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Phone:
(805) 563-8820
Fax:
(805) 563-8821
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