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National Hospice Month, 2008
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For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary October 31, 2008

National Hospice Month, 2008 A Proclamation by the President of the United
States of America

ÿÿWhite House News


During National Hospice Month, we honor the dedicated health care
professionals and volunteers who help the terminally ill spend their final
days in comfort and with dignity. Hospice care providers and other
compassionate individuals are a constant reminder that the greatness of
America lies in the hearts and souls of its citizens.

Americans believe that every person has matchless value throughout all of
life's stages. Hospice physicians, nurses, counselors, and volunteers put
this belief into action by using their talents and energy to care for those
who are terminally ill and by providing support and comfort to their loved
ones. As an alternative to traditional services, hospice care frequently
provides assistance in the home so that patients can be surrounded by
family and friends. Hospice counselors offer guidance to patients, as well
as to those close to them, as they deal with grief, anxiety, and other
end-of-life issues. Through these and countless other acts of compassion,
our Nation's hospice caregivers lift up souls, offer peace of mind, and
strengthen America's culture of life.

Throughout National Hospice Month, we recognize hospice care professionals
and volunteers for their selfless efforts to provide physical,
psychological, and spiritual assistance to terminally ill patients and
their families.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2008 as National
Hospice Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month with
appropriate programs and activities. I also ask Americans to recognize our
health care professionals and volunteers for their contributions to helping
provide comfort and care to those facing terminal illness.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

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