Tyrone Monte’s first experience with hospice care was in 2004 when his father-in-law passed away in Palm Beach County. He was amazed and appreciative of the high level of care and compassion given to his loved one.
When he retired in 2011, Tyrone began volunteering as a patient companion at the urging of a friend. It was during this service he realized how strongly he felt that no one should die alone. He then went on to be a chaplain’s assistant and 11th Hour volunteer.
In the years to follow, Tyrone had several more relatives receive end-of-life care from hospice, but none was more impactful than the loss of his wife in 2016. His beloved Theresa suffered a stroke and was hospitalized. The doctors offered no hope. Tyrone was traveling back and forth to West Palm Beach to be by her side.
“We had no way of knowing how long she had,” he said. “The hospital was noisy and there was no place for me to spend the night in the room with her. I wanted her to be close to home, and I wanted her last moments to be dignified.”
Treasure Coast Hospice (TCH) was that place for Theresa to be cared for with dignity and Tyrone to be with his wife until she passed away. “I remember falling asleep and the nurse woke me up and told me it was almost time so I was able to be right be her side,” he shared. “I can say with confidence that I did the best I could for my wife.”
Tyrone decided that he wanted to remember TCH in his estate plan. Commenting on the wide array of services offered by TCH, he said, “I came to the realization that the entire community benefits from having hospice, but not everyone is able to support the program financially. It is important for those of us who can support, step in for those who can’t.”
“Hospice is a vital service in our growing area,” he continued. “If we can help the program provide the same abundance of support we received, it’s a legacy worth supporting.” To discuss other creative ways to leave a legacy, please reach out to Christine Birkett, CFRE at 772-403-4580.
