Alive Brings Additional Specialist Support to Children in Hospice Care

Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation South Central Chapter Provides $10,000 Grant for Child Life Specialist

Alive, the only nonprofit hospice in Middle Tennessee, is adding a child life specialist to its team to better support children receiving hospice care, their siblings, and children facing the loss of a loved one. The position will be funded with a $10,000 grant from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation South Central Chapter and staffed by Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Child life specialists work with children and families in health care settings, providing developmentally appropriate information, preparation for medical procedures, pain management, etc. and often use play and self-expression activities to help children feel safe and connected. They also support the family members and siblings of young patients.

“We are committed to providing developmentally appropriate care and emotional support for children at this critical time,” said Joseph K. Hampe, Alive’s COO and interim President/CEO. “We are grateful to the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation for this grant and for the excellent staff at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt who will fill this role for us.”

The child life specialist will focus on supporting children who are hospice patients at Alive (and their siblings), whether they are cared for at home or in one of Alive’s in-patient units.

Alive provides end-of-life care in Middle Tennessee to anyone who needs it regardless of ability to pay. Our Pediatric Care Team cares for an average of 10  pediatric patients each day. More information on Alive’s pediatric care.

Alive also cares for children after they have lost a loved one. Learn more about our special activities for children, teens and families at our Grief Center.

For more information on Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation South Central Chapter, visit @joyinchildhood on Instagram, #bringjoy.