Blue Water Home Care & Hospice (BWHCH) leadership honors staff and volunteers quarterly through the ‘Shining Star’ program, recognizing the extras they do for each other, our patients, and the community.

Let’s get to know Fran!

Fran has been a BWHCH volunteer since 2009!

What are some of the tasks you do as a volunteer?

I started with in-home patient visits. When the Blue Water Hospice Home was opened, I also started helping in the kitchen. When COVID limited our contact with patients, my in-home work ceased. I now help in the kitchen on a regular basis, with mailings, the semi-annual memorial services, and our annual fun educational training.

What was the draw to work at BWHCH?

When I retired, I found myself with time on my hands. I had always admired the work my sister did for Blue Water Hospice, so I wondered if it would be a good fit for me. I talked to thevolunteer coordinator at the time, Jean Howison. We both thought this might be a good fit for me as I had always enjoyed helping people through my work in retail. I am so glad I made that decision to join BWH. I like doing in-home visits as I have met some very interesting people along the way. But I really enjoyed my time spent working in the kitchen. I’m by no means a chef or a master baker, but I do enjoy seeing people enjoy my kitchen efforts.

What is your favorite part of the day (doesn’t have to be work related)?

A good hot cup of coffee or tea when it is cold out or a raspberry iced tea when it is warm. A good book and sitting on my swing when the weather is nice. Spending time texting or talking with my grandkids.

Why did you choose this type of work?

I have been cooking and baking since I was about 11 years old and have for the most part always looked forward to making people happy through these efforts. It is always fun & rewarding to try something new and be told that it can go in the recipe box!

Heidi recognized Fran as a Shining Star! 

Fran is our baking volunteer! She spreads joy with her fabulous desserts and baked goods at the Blue Water Hospice Home. Our staff, patients, and families enjoy a variety of Fran’s sweet treats from cakes, cookies, brownies, cupcakes, coffee cakes, and many more. Also, twice a year, Fran provides desserts to caregivers/families at our Bereavement Services bi-annual memorial. Thank you, Fran, for being a Shining Star to our agency through your baking.

If you’d like to recognize a staff member or volunteer, go to https://bwhch.org/thankyou/.