NEWSFEED

A Farewell Message from Siobhan Greene

Lasting Memories, Heartfelt Gratitude

Dear Friends,

Quite possibly, this farewell letter is the most difficult one I have had to write. But here it goes…

Taking the helm in 2013, I knew how to run an organization, but knowledge of end-of-life care was limited to my personal experiences. When someone in my life died, I felt lost, alone, frightened, and overwhelmed with sorrow. The sadness of my losses, primarily my loving parents, was something to get over, to heal from over time in whatever mysterious way that might happen. I assumed that was all I could expect. By now, I have learned there could have been much more in the way of support, guidance, and help. I realized that my ‘why’ for being at Hospice Giving Foundation was so I could help people have a gentler, more supported experience through end of life, and our community could have better resources. In my heart, I have dedicated this work in memory of my mother and father who have been with me in spirit each step of the way.

Helping grow Hospice Giving Foundation has been nothing short of inspiring. The people have deeply enriched my life. From staff, to board, providers, supporters, and friends, each of you helped show me the way to understand our community, learn about gaps in services, and work towards solutions. Together we worked to ‘see’ people and what they needed, to be humbled by the painful circumstances they have had to navigate, and to challenge ourselves to do more, be better.

Proudly we created Heal Together to respond to the wave of grief during the pandemic. We increased grant funding so local organizations could be more impactful, we brought clinicians together to talk about the work, and we created a movement called HOPEGives to develop a better language with which to understand and prepare for serious illness, death, and dying.

There have been many times when one of you called me to ask for guidance, some help, or information. Certainly, there were times when we cried, questioned the why, and sought comfort together. It is such a gift to hold and share that space during our most vulnerable moments. Thank you for your trust.

When I read my final day’s emails and walk out the door on Friday, June 28^th, I will leave a piece of my heart behind. But my heart is so full that there is plenty to go around. I will take great delight in watching the beautiful work of Hospice Giving Foundation in our community, knowing that the organization is in excellent hands.

In speeches, I have often used a series of H and G words to describe Hospice Giving Foundation so, here’s one more round. I am honored and humbled to have been part of this organization. I find hope in the sheer humanity of this work. I am filled with gratitude for the grace you have shown me. And though this is the hardest part, with enormous respect and affection, I say goodbye.

Thank you for your ongoing support, kindness, and friendship. I shall miss you all and will sign off with a quote from John O’Donoghue…