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Harmony House provides vital service

Date: 12/7/2011

Dec. 7, 2011

By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent

HOLYOKE — Ruth E. Willemain is on a mission so that no one will die alone.

Her vision is Harmony House, “a home, a hope, a unique approach for the compassionate care of the terminally ill,” she said during an interview with Reminder Publications.

Willemain, joined by friend and Harmony House supporter, Jeanne St. Pierre of Chicopee, spent two recent days at the Holiday Fair at St. Mary’s Church in Westfield, selling Trappistine Quality Candy as a fundraiser for the cause. The Nuns of Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey in Wrentham make the homemade candy in a variety of delectable choices, ranging from milk and dark butter nut munch, maple walnut penuche, and chocolate fudge to almond bark and chocolate squares.

This vibrant, former longtime educator in the West Springfield Public School system, is currently seeking members to serve on the board of directors who can take the nonprofit organization to the next level.

“All skills are welcome, but we are particularly in need of people with banking, finance, health care, management, technology and fund-raising backgrounds,” she said, adding that it is a “struggle” to raise money with small fund-raisers.

Since 2004, Willemain has formulated the ideal facility she would like to see take shape in our region.

“Our ideal facility will be designed to provide 24-hour personal care for up to 10 individuals,” she said, adding each room would be private, with comfortable furnishings to provide a home-like environment for the residents, families and staff.

Willemain also envisions Harmony House having a common dining room, living room, atrium, and chapel. Adding to the tranquil setting would be beautifully landscaped grounds with park benches and groomed pathways.

Her extensive time spent as a hospice volunteer has shown her that many on limited incomes or with few resources are in need of compassionate care in their final stages of life. Since 1999, she has volunteered her time with Hospice Life Care of Holyoke, as well as with the Holyoke Geriatric Authority.

“After I retired, I wanted to serve others,” she said. “As much as I want Harmony House, I cannot give up my hospice work, it keeps me going.”

Willemain added that people feel “very open to sharing their wants and needs” at the end of their lives.

What Willemain also needs is an existing structure in Western Massachusetts that could be remodeled to fit the essential needs of Harmony House.

“We are open to all options,” she said.

When Harmony House does become a reality, Willemain noted that all care and activities will be supervised by trained professionals. Services that will be provided will include pain management and physical care, as well as physical, emotional and spiritual support.

“Around the clock volunteer care is also one of the hallmarks of our personal care commitment,” she said.

Volunteers including nurses and certified nursing assistants have already signed on to get involved in the resident care aspect of Harmony House, according to Willemain.

“Volunteers will assist with residential care, prepare and serve meals in a home-like setting, and offer hospitality,” she said, adding that volunteers would also be needed for housekeeping duties and maintenance.

Willemain is hoping that area residents will embrace her vision of providing a peaceful atmosphere of respect and compassion that honors the dignity of each individual.

“Harmony House will reflect an abiding Christian sense of ministry, serving individuals without regard to gender, creed, or national origin,” she said.

For more information on becoming involved with the organization, contact Willemain at 534-0704 or via email to rainbow35@msn.com.

For more details on Harmony House, a 501(c) 3 corporation, or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit www.harmonyhouse.us



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