Each day we make hundreds of decisions. What should I wear? Which route should I drive to work? What should I eat for lunch? Which TV program will I watch tonight? But on April 16, Good Shepherd Hospice wants you to make some of the decisions that matter most in your life – what type of care do you want when facing a medical crisis and who will speak for you if you are unable?

Good Shepherd Hospice, along with other national, state and community organizations, will celebrate the inaugural National Healthcare Decisions Day. The day has been established to highlight the importance of advance healthcare decision-making. Good Shepherd Hospice encourages you to talk to your loved ones about your healthcare wishes and to complete your advance directives.

Click on these links for a copy of a health care surrogate and/or living will form.

Good Shepherd Hospice offers the only in-patient hospice care facility in Polk, Highlands and Hardee counties at our George C. Forsythe Hospice House in Auburndale.

At the Forsythe Hospice House, Good Shepherd Hospice staff can address end-of-life issues while patients stay in a serene, home-like setting with tranquil views of Lake Ariana.

All our rooms are private and feature a private bath and accommodations for family members to stay the night, which we encourage. The Forsythe Hospice House also has a family kitchen, a laundry facility, Internet access and children’s playroom.

Want to know more about the services offered at the Good Shepherd Hospice Forsythe Hospice House? Click here to see our video or call us at 800-464-3994.

Are you looking for a fulfilling and rewarding volunteering opportunity in your community? Then look no further than Good Shepherd Hospice. We are seeking volunteers to provide companionship to patients and assistance to caregivers. Along with providing support for patients and their families in their homes, volunteers can also visit patients in assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Good Shepherd Hospice volunteers commit to giving two to four hours each week. Free training is required and provided.

For more information or to register for an upcoming training, call Nina Gilbert at 863.551.3979.