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Luminary Celebration at Hopewell House Hospice Inspires Supporters

Elizabeth Moulton, her granddaughter Elke Neuenschwander and Elke’s mother Patty Neuenschwander display their luminaries. NB. Elizabeth is a Hopewell House volunteer, retired Legacy Health nurse, and daughter of our former patient Virginia Van Winkle.

Portland, January 1st. Legacy Hopewell House Hospice on S.W. Capitol Highway held a celebration of life in support of families. Elizabeth Moulton, her granddaughter Elke Neuenschwander and Elke’s mother Patty Neuenschwander display their luminaries. (Photos by Andie Petkus) Elizabeth is a Hopewell House volunteer, retired Legacy Health nurse, and daughter of former patient Virginia Van Winkle.

University of Portland Nursing Student and Hopewell House volunteer Christie Schleich lighting a luminary.

The goal of Hopewell House is to provide compassionate, competent care for hospice patients and their families and friends. It serves those who are experiencing severe pain, intractable nausea, seizures, depression, respiratory distress, or other conditions that the patient’s family is unable to cope with. Round-the-clock medical care emphasizes symptom management and support for the whole person.

The Hopewell house following the lighting of the luminaries

Each luminary has special signifance

Luminaries light up the stairway in front of the house. A former patient once described the image as a picture of what Hopewell House does. She said, “We are all on a path to the Light. The way may be dark at times, but the luminaries represent the ‘angels’ who serve us and help us on our way.”

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.