SAIL High School Students Visit Big Bend Hospice
On Monday, March 9, Big Bend Hospice had the opportunity to welcome students from SAIL High School to kick off their Holistic Healthcare Intensive Week. During their visit, students took a deeper dive into hospice care and learned about the holistic services provided to patients and families. The session also introduced students to the important role Big Bend Hospice plays in supporting the community, guided by our mission to inspire hope by positively impacting the way our community experiences serious illness or grief, one family at a time.
Learning from Leaders and Healthcare Professionals
Students were welcomed by members of the leadership team, who shared insights into their roles within the organization and how they were first introduced to hospice care. The event then transitioned into a series of presentations from the Training and Development team, the Nursing Department, and the Volunteer Department, offering students a broad perspective on the many disciplines involved in compassionate end-of-life care.
Hands-On Experience in Healthcare
Students also participated in a hands-on skills lab, where they had the opportunity to practice and explore real-world healthcare techniques. This interactive session allowed them to gain practical insight into the skills healthcare professionals use to support patients every day.
Following the skills lab, students toured the Margaret Z. Dozier Hospice House, where they were able to see firsthand how compassionate care is delivered in a peaceful and supportive environment designed for patients and families.
Understanding the Full Spectrum of Hospice Care
During the afternoon sessions, students learned more about the roles and services of hospice social workers, bereavement counselors, spiritual care providers, and the Admissions and Referral teams. These discussions helped students better understand how hospice care supports patients and families not only physically, but also emotionally and spiritually.
To conclude the day, students were divided into five groups and rotated through interactive stations where they learned about the hospice and palliative care referral process, Big Bend Palliative Care, and Complementary Therapies. These rotations allowed students to explore the many ways interdisciplinary teams work together to provide holistic care and support within the community.
A Meaningful Experience for Future Healthcare Professionals
At the end of the visit, students reflected on their experience and the knowledge they gained throughout the day. Morgan Lee, a senior at SAIL High School and part of the CNA program, shared her appreciation for the opportunity: “Thank you so much! We really appreciate everything you taught us. This experience is such a valuable steppingstone for many of us.”
Big Bend Hospice is proud to support and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals by providing opportunities for students to learn about compassionate, patient-centered care. We are grateful to the students at SAIL High School for spending the day with us and look forward to continuing to engage and educate future healthcare leaders in our community.
Media Contacts:
Travia J. Cromartie, Director of Marketing and Community Relations
Big Bend Hospice
tcromartie@bigbendhospice.org | (850) 850.556.1786
Asya M. Griffin, Marketing and Community Relations Coordinator
Big Bend Hospice
agriffin@bigbendhospice.org | (850) 850.508.5407