by Rose Crumb
(PART 1)
The first issue of the HOSPICE INTEREST newsletter in February 1978 featured this article: ―The first meeting of the Hospice Interest group was held Tuesday, February 7, 1978 at 7:00 p.m. at the Port Angeles Senior Citizen Center. Those present were: Nan McGoff, Claudia Fox, Jean Hordyk, Rose Crumb, Marge Koch, Laurel Oppelt and Frank Feeley, Jr.
So it began—this wonderful organization that did not have a name or money….just 7 enthusiastic volunteers and a vision of care for the terminally ill and their loved ones. This concept of care was new in the entire country and especially on the West Coast. The first hospice started in New Haven, Connecticut in 1974 and from there spread in all directions, reaching Washington 3 years later.