Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.
A joyful crowd gathered on Thursday afternoon, Nov. 14, to officially open the new Monticello field office for Big Bend Hospice (BBH). The event brought together BBH staff, local BBH Advisory Council members, BBH volunteers, community leaders, government officials, Chamber of Commerce representatives and the donors who made the project possible.
Everyone had time to explore the facility, located at 615 N. Jefferson St., which is designed to support the interdisciplinary BBH crew who provide in-home patient care out in the community. In the main meeting room, a slide show loop featured glimpses of some of the people who deliver BBH services, including a social worker, a chaplain, a nurse, a certified nurse assistant, a music therapist, bereavement counselors and the overseeing staff doctor. A lavish flower arrangement and delicious refreshments filled the meeting table for the occasion.
At 4:30, the group gathered on the spacious front porch for a ribbon cutting ceremony and speeches from BBH leadership.
“The building turned out beautiful,” said Michael Eurich, Senior Director of Strategy, Policy & Innovation for BBH. “This was a community effort... We've had patience, we've all gone through the blood, sweat and tears, the COVID and the rains and the tornadoes. We've waited long enough. This is yours.”
Big Bend Hospice Foundation President Dena Strickland then said, “On behalf of Big Bend Hospice Foundation, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to every one of you that joined us today. This is a special occasion. This grand opening and ribbon cutting of Big Ben Hospice Jefferson County office marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. We could not have reached this milestone without your support, your encouragement and your dedication. The Jefferson County Council members gave amazingly. Partners and supporters, you all are truly our hospice hearts. We are deeply thankful for your presence 
today. It's an honor to know you and for the trust you have placed in us as we embark on this new journey. Your support not only helps us grow but also strengthens our commitment to inspire hope right here in Jefferson County. We look forward to continuing to serve Jefferson County gladly with you and share many successes together. Thank you again for being a part of this momentous day. We are truly grateful for your support in making Big Bend Hospice Jefferson County office possible.”
BBH Executive Director Amanda Gustafson added, “This is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. It blew me away. I came to a council meeting a few weeks ago, and it just warmed my heart to see that our staff and our patients have such a beautiful place right here in Monticello.”
Because BBH is a member of the Monticello-Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, Executive Director Amy McDaniel led the ribbon cutting portion of the celebration with these remarks: “I just have a huge love in my heart for what hospice does, what they stand for, and I am so happy that we have staff here and this beautiful place here in Jefferson County now. I vow you that we will support you, we will partner with you in any way, to promote, and do whatever iis necessary to be a part of this.”
Chamber President Eydie Tricquet then read a proclamation from the Chamber, welcoming Big Bend Hospice to Jefferson County.
With an audible snip of the giant golden scissors, the bright red ribbon fluttered open, followed by applause from the crowd. The facility is now operating as a field office for local BBH staff and volunteers!
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