National Hospice Month, 2006

Proclamation 8079 of October 30, 2006

National Hospice Month, 2006

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Americans demonstrate the great compassion of our
country by caring for those in need. During National
Hospice Month, we recognize hospice caregivers for
their dedication to providing comfort and peace to
individuals in their last days and helping build a
society that values the life and dignity of every
person.

Hospice physicians, nurses, counselors, and volunteers
bring care and support to the terminally ill through
physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aid. By
helping control pain and minimize other symptoms, these
men and women bring relief to those who are terminally
ill and show them the utmost respect. Hospice care
enables many of our citizens to spend their final days
in comfort and dignity surrounded by loved ones. This
palliative care plays a vital role in our Nation's
health care system, and the dedicated work of hospice
caregivers helps ensure that our citizens receive the
services and support they need. Hospice caregivers also
reach out to families and friends to provide guidance
and counseling after the loss of a loved one.

Our Nation is grateful for the tireless efforts of
hospice volunteers and medical professionals, and
during National Hospice Month, we recognize the
kindness of hospice caregivers and their devotion to
making our country a more loving and caring place.

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 2006 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
thirtieth day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand six, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.