Hospice Care salutes UCMC

Hospitals are at the heart of many communities and its citizens. During times of illness, we turn to the people we trust - health care professionals.

Hospice Care of South Carolina, along with the American Hospital Association, proudly salute Upstate Carolina Medical Center for National Hospital Week 2007, May 6-12.

This year's theme - Care You Count On, People You Trust - centers on the trust built by hospitals and the value of unifying health care facilities across the country. Hospitals are places of hope and recovery, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and filled with individuals who care.

National Hospital Week began in 1921 at the suggestion of a magazine editor who believed opening the hospitals to the community would transform the fearful public view associated with the health care facilities. Since its inception, National Hospital Week has become the largest health care event in the country. Held each year during the birthday week of legendary nurse, Florence Nightingale, the celebration has provided hospitals with the opportunity to focus on wellness and build community trust.

To honor the contributions made by hospitals and health care professionals, Hospice Care of South Carolina is celebrating National Hospital Week by recognizing them through special events and appreciation gifts.

"Health care is a very giving profession. Its members provide answers, treatment, compassion, and support to those in need," said Amanda Knowles, Community Relations Director for Hospice Care of South Carolina. "Their value in our community is immeasurable."