U.S. Rep. Mrvan tours VNA Hospice NWI, promises ongoing advocacy for nonprofit hospices
U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan visited the VNA Arthur B. and Ethel V. Horton Hospice Center on Monday to learn about the variety of services provided by the nonprofit hospice throughout Northwest Indiana.
Mrvan, D-1st, said he witnessed the care and support given to patients and their families during life’s most delicate moments.
During his visit, he said he engaged in meaningful conversations with the healthcare professionals, including nurses, aides and volunteers. Through these discussions, he said, he gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by non-profit hospice providers and the role VNA Hospice NWI plays in delivering comfort, dignity and compassion to those in need.
One of the highlights of the visit was hearing heartwarming stories about families who have received care and support from VNA hospice, Mrvan said, affirming the importance of accessible and high-quality end-of-life care services.
“I’ve always known what hospice care meant, but until you come here and think about all the families and individuals who are quitting their jobs or retiring early to handle the stress of taking care of a loved one who is going through some sort of medical issue, you don’t realize how important it is to know that something like palliative care exists,” the congressman said.
“Now I can let my staff know and tell everyone I know so that we can be ambassadors for the community.”
After the visit, Mrvan expressed admiration for VNA Hospice NWI’s dedication and commitment to serving the region; and applauded their tireless efforts to ensure individuals facing life-limiting illnesses receive the compassion and attention they deserve.
“It’s always good to have a legislator who wants to come out and learn about your services, especially when you depend on federal funding, but the fact that it’s Frank makes today even more meaningful because I truly believe that he cares about people,” said Bob Franko, CEO of VNA Hospice NWI.
“His past experience as a township trustee is unique, so when he comes out, he’s not just doing it for a photo opportunity; he is genuinely interested in who we are, what we do and the services we provide.
“He leaves you with the feeling that he is truly going to advocate and fight for you, and he does,” Franko said.
Mrvan told the hospice staff he would continue to advocate for nonprofit hospice care, and fight for robust funding during budget and appropriation processes to ensure these essential programs receive the resources needed.
The visit concluded with a shared sense of gratitude, and VNA Hospice NWI pledged to continue collaborating with Mrvan, welcoming him back to further educate and advocate for nonprofit hospices in the community, Franko said.
VNA Hospice NWI provides hospice care, palliative care, VNA Meals on Wheels of Porter County, the Medical Guardian alert button, grief support for anyone who has lost a loved one, grief support for children at the Phoenix Center, and a We Honor Veterans Program.