 Adjust Text Size
For Immediate Release
February 12, 1999
White Helps Unveil Hospice Care Stamp
Harrisburg – Calling attention to the important role hospice care plays
in meeting the nation’s health care needs, Sen. Mary Jo White (R-21) joined
the U.S. Postal Service and the Pennsylvania Hospice Network in unveiling
the Hospice Care Stamp.
White, who sponsored legislation last year leading to the licensing
of Pennsylvania hospices, said the 33-cent stamp is a great way to raise
awareness about a cost-efficient, compassionate type of care for the terminally
ill.
"I was honored and excited to be a part of the unveiling ceremony for
the new Hospice Care Stamp. I encourage everyone to purchase and use hospice
stamps to help recognize the invaluable services provided by hospice workers
to terminally ill individuals and their families," said White
Hospice care focuses on in-home care and providing for the social, emotional
and spiritual needs of both patient and family, said White. Hospices provide
care to terminally ill individuals, including those with cancer, AIDS,
Alzheimer’s, and terminal heart, lung, kidney and liver diseases.
The modern concept of hospice care was founded by English physician
Dame Cicely Saunders in the mid-1960s. The first American hospice was established
a decade later in New Haven, Conn., eventually spreading nationwide to
offer unique, compassionate care to hundreds of thousands of Americans
each year.
White said the Hospice Care stamp marks 25 years of improving the way
Americans are cared for at the end of their lives and is dedicated to those
who have been served by hospices, as well as the professionals and volunteers
who provide this high-quality care.
CONTACT: Leigh Ramsey (717) 787-9684
| 
