Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 Looking Back At 2025 Hospice of the Upper Galilee
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 2 HOSPICE OF THE UPPER GALILEE I Looking Back at 2023 2 Figures tell Distribution by Region 193 965 2565 87%% 6 75 patients family members involved home visits passed away at home new foundations from abroad joined the list of hospice supporters settlements (out of 120 in the area) About in Majd Al Shams Mas'adeh Ein Kinyeh Ghajar Metula Qiriat Shmona Yesod Ha'Maala Qatzrin Hatzor Ha'Glilit Tzefat Rosh Pinna Goush Halav (Jish) Golan Heights Upper Galilee Mevoot Ha'Hermon Merom Ha'Galil 15% Upper Galilee 15% Kiryat Shmona 4% Rosh Pina 4% Hatsor 15% Safed 15% Golan 4% Merom Hagalil 4% Mevoot HaHermon 13% Jordan Valley 4% Other Figures Tell 160 patients About 680 involved family members 1,554 home visits In 120 towns and villages 78% passed away at home
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 3 The year 2025 marked a period of reflection, renewal, and growth for us, a year in which we continued to care, to accompany, to learn and to build. Alongside the challenges of a complex national and regional reality, we remained steadfast in our core values of compassion, professionalism, collaboration and hope and continued to provide high-quality, sensitive, and respectful palliative care to patients and their families throughout the Eastern Galilee, the Golan Heights and the Jordan Valley. Over the course of the year, the circle of patients we serve expanded, along with our engagement with the communities in which we work. We deepened the professional training of our teams, strengthened partnerships with healthcare, community and academic institutions, and opened space for a renewed public dialogue on the meaning of life and its end within Israeli society. All of this was carried out with a deep sense of mission and a firm belief that even in life’s final moments, there is room for light, human connection, and dignity. The Year 2025
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 4 Over the past year, we have increased our knowledge enrichment and organizational learning sessions. We hosted external experts for lectures, and in some of the learning sessions, our own team members shared their knowledge. We had the pleasure of hosting: • Dr. Talia Kaner addressed the topic of Heart Failure • Ms. Galit Hayon, a specialist in Wound Care and Dressings conducted an in-depth training on the subject. • Mr. Ben Harel spoke about the work of Mish’ol HaChayim (Life Path), a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing quality of life and advocating for the rights of terminally ill adult patients and their families. • Mr. Eran Moshe, Chairperson of the Myasthenia Gravis Association (severe muscle weakness) spoke about this complex disease. • Ms. Adi Hazan and Ms. Meytal Perri lectured on the topic “Becoming Acquainted with the Unit for Elderly Welfare at Vatikey HaGalil” (Galilee Veterans). In addition, HUG team members led knowledge-sharing sessions on a wide range of topics from psychosocial issues and bureaucratic processes, to digestive problems, conversations about death and more. Though our mission is to support people through the final chapters of life, we also uphold the highest medical standards, including the Ministry of Health’s requirement that we complete ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) training. Over the course of two intensive days (March 5-6), our dedicated team demonstrated unwavering commitment to professionalism, learning, practicing, and ultimately passing the final exam with flying colors. A heartfelt thank you to paramedic Mr. Salman Safadi from Magen David Adom, whose expert instruction guided us every step of the way. EnrichmentThroughKnowledge Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support Organizational Development
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 5 Three training sessions were held for HUG’s staff (in May, June, August) focusing on the use of our newly acquired ultrasound device, purchased thanks to a gift from the late Miriam Shwartz mother of Oded Shwartz, HUG’s Chairperson. This important tool allows us to identify urgent medical issues on the spot, helping us prevent unnecessary worry for our patients and avoid needless hospital visits. The device enables a noteworthy step toward providing responsive, compassionate care where it matters most. In October, we held a training session for the medical staff at the Training Center of the School of Nursing at Ziv Medical Center in Safed. The training was led by the Head of Training, Ms. Tzipi Avraham, and the Chief Instructor, Ms. Ilana Dovkin. We focused on stoma care, drain management, central catheter care, and practiced skills such as replacing gastric feeding tubes and inserting a tracheal cannula as an emergency procedure. Ultrasound Training for Improved Patient Care Training and Skills Maintenance
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 6 We were honored to have Mr. Meir Abksis as our guest of honor when he affixed the mezuzah at the entrance to HUG’s new meeting room in February. Sadly, Meir lost his wife after a courageous fight against cancer. HUG had the privilege of caring for her before she passed. As is our tradition before Passover, it was a true honor to host all members of the Hospice’s General Assembly (March 28) who convened to raise a Le’Chaim, approve the annual budget, review our 2024 activities and present our five-year work plan. Affixing our Mezoza General Assembly NEWS from 2025
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 7 By Naomi Glazman, Director of HUG’s Psychosocial Department During a visit to the U.S. this April, I found myself near the Harvard Library and was reminded of Dr. Nancy Caroline, her legacy, and the collection of her work donated by her family to the university. Curious, I searched online and discovered she was buried in Newton, just 10 minutes from my grandson’s daycare. I decided to visit her grave before returning to Israel. With my son Adam, a pot-plant of blooming gerberas, and a quiet sense of purpose, we found her resting place in the David Vicur Cholim section of the cemetery, beside her parents. Under gray skies and gentle rain, I placed the flower and a stone on her grave. I thanked her for founding the hospice and told her about its growth since her passing in 2002, and the lives it continues to touch. It was a quiet, emotional moment. A small gesture of gratitude for a woman whose vision changed so much for so many. Honoring Nancy Caroline Link to Nancy's documents in the library: click here NEWS from 2025
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 8 Pride for HUG –Midot Seal of Effectiveness Award NEWS from 2025 We are proud and delighted to share that for the fourth consecutive year, HUG has been awarded the Midot Seal of Effectiveness, following their in-depth evaluation and research process. The Midot Seal is granted to nonprofit organizations, NGOs, and social organizations that demonstrate high standards of management, efficiency and social impact. This achievement reflects our continued ability to create real and meaningful change in the lives of our patients and their families while, at the same time, making optimal use of the resources entrusted to us. This recognition also opens doors for us to expand fundraising opportunities through leading platforms and supporting organizations such as Round-Up Israel (Igul Letova), Ogen Foundation, Keshet Foundation, and JGIVE and strengthens our collaborations with donors and partners. With heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team, volunteers and partners, this accomplishment belongs to you no less than it does to us!
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 9 Our HUG team was delighted to host Dr. Dvora Werber, Kzia Cohen, Michal Zac, Maya Daskalo and Orit Robinson from the Palliative Service at Emek Medical Center in Afula (May 12th). A heartfelt letter received after the visit, confirmed what we deeply felt, that the day was significant for all of us. We are proud to share that Yael Bleich, who served for many years as Director of Operations and Head of Nursing at the Upper Galilee Hospice, has been elected to the newly formed Nurses’ Forum within the Israel Association for Palliative Care. For the first time in the history of the Association, nurses have been officially chosen to join its leadership ranks, a significant step that reflects a broader commitment to include all professionals engaged in palliative care in Israel. Warm congratulations to Yael! A Meaningful Visit from Emek Medical Center Celebrating a Milestone in Palliative Care Nursing From L to R: Ketzia Cohen and Yael Bleich, two of the newly elected members
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 0 From L to R: Yael Blich and Ketzua Cohen, tow of the newly elected members The HUG team had the honor of hosting Ms. Limor Izikovitch, Chief Oncology Nurse for Maccabi’s Northern District, in celebration of the upcoming New Year. During her visit, Ms. Izikovitch delivered a comprehensive and insightful overview of Maccabi’s patient intake process. Her presentation was truly eye-opening for our staff, deepening our understanding of Maccabi’s approach and practices. This valuable exchange not only enriched our professional knowledge but also laid the groundwork for a stronger, more collaborative partnership between our teams. Celebrating Rosh Hashana with Maccabi NEWS from 2025 A meaningful and in-depth meeting took place between the management of Upper Galilee Hospice and the Home Care Services team at Femi, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening ongoing collaboration and enhancing the quality of hospice-at-home care. A Meeting with Femi
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 1 On April 24th, our CEO, Dafna Abrahams met with Cohort 3 of the Ilanot – Medical Cadets program at the Bar-Ilan Azrieli Faculty of Medicine. This four-year initiative is dedicated to cultivating outstanding medical leadership in the Galilee. The group, around 25 students from across the country, has chosen to live and study in the Galilee as part of the program. During the visit, Dafna told them about the hospice, the team and its work program and ethics. Together, they explored the meaning of end-of-life care and the complexities of death. As part of our community involvement and our desire to raise public awareness about the possibility of ending life at home, with dignity and compassion, we hold informational and outreach meetings throughout the Galilee. These meetings include staff members, volunteers, and families of former patients, who offer the public a close and meaningful look into the world of hospice care and the values that guide us in our daily work. Future Medical Leaders Community Meetings and Public Awareness MeetingsinourCommunities An in-depth discussion with CEO Dafna Abrahams at Kibbutz Kfar Hanassi on August 4th
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 2 For over three decades, Bar/Bat Mitzvah students and their families have upheld a touching and inspiring tradition: a community fair whose proceeds are dedicated entirely to the Upper Galilee Hospice and the Hemato-Oncology Department at Ziv Medical Center in Safed. After two challenging years of war and the struggle to return to routine life in the north, organizing this year’s booths was no easy task — but the spirit of volunteerism and mutual support within the northern community prevailed. The mobilization was extraordinary, the dedication evident in every detail, and our hearts are filled with pride as we witness how, together, we are creating real and meaningful change. Raising Money for the Hospice MeetingsinourCommunities Hug team members at Mahanaim (September 2025)
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 3 We were privileged to experience a particularly moving moment at HUG with the training of new palliative care nurses, who are joining the hospice family and will serve as a meaningful and strengthening support team whenever needed. Seven highly professional, experienced nurses with generous hearts took part in this initiative. The training was delivered with great professionalism by Ms. Tal Eshkol, our Head Nurse and Director of Nursing. We warmly welcome you to our caregiving community and thank you for your willingness to be part of a place where humanity, attentive listening, and compassion are at the very center of care. Welcome to the family. All 40 of our hospice patients received a special delivery of Purim goodies, given by the family of one of the hospice patients. The purpose of this delightful gift was to bring a little joy into their homes At our festive pre-Passover staff meeting, we were deeply moved to receive a special gift from the family of one of our patients - a bottle of wine and a warm personal message for each member of the Hospice team. A Day of Heart and Giving at Upper Galilee Hospice Purim Surprise Passover Wine Dr. Michael Harari with the Purim gifts From L to R: Naomi Glzaman, Dafna Abrahams, Avital Ben Ari EngagingwithPatients'Families
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 4 “How We Get Old” is a deeply personal book written by Irit Shtekelmacher before her passing. Intended as a legacy for her family, Irit also chose to share a copy with HUG, accompanied by a heartfelt dedication. We are honored to receive this meaningful gift and grateful for the opportunity to carry her words and memory forward. In keeping with the hospice’s cherished tradition, each year we make a point of choosing a holiday gift that carries not only our gratitude and appreciation for the team’s dedicated work, but also a deep connection to the place and the community in which we live. This year, we chose “The Foraging Book”, a local creation written by Ms. Lilach Mutzafi, the daughter of a hospice patient who passed away. Lilach’s mother was a woman deeply and inseparably connected to the land, to the plants, and to the natural landscape that surrounded her life, a bond with nature that is beautifully reflected throughout the pages of the book. A Gift from the Heart The Foraging Book Engaging with Patients' Families Cover of "How We Get Old"
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 5 On May 21st, a groundbreaking professional conference was held under the title “At the End of Days: When Aging Meets Palliative Care.” The event brought together 110 professionals from the fields of geriatrics and palliative care, reflecting a growing awareness of the deep interconnection between the aging process and end-of-life care. The central goal of the conference was to foster professional collaboration between these two vital areas of healthcare. As life expectancy continues to rise, and with it the number of older adults living with chronic illnesses, the need for integrated care approaches has never been more pressing. The conference served as a platform for dialogue, learning and networking aimed at helping bridge gaps and building new partnerships across disciplines. Topics ranged from ethical dilemmas in prolonged care, to communication with families during advanced illness, to building systems that respect the dignity and wishes of the elderly as they approach life’s final stages. By the end of the day, a strong consensus had emerged: improving quality of life for older adults, especially those facing complex medical needs, requires not only clinical excellence but also genuine collaboration between specialties. Building A Shared Professional Language and Vision Conferences
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 6 On the eighth day of Hanukkah, December 22, we held a festive symposium marking 30 years since the establishment of the Hospice of the Upper Galilee, under the title: “War, Care and Everything in Between.” The event served not only as an historical milestone but also as a moment for deep reflection on three decades of care, accompaniment and compassion in northern Israel. The speakers of the day highlighted the legacy of the founders, the professional and organizational development and the meaning of palliative work in Israel, especially during a time when life in the north challenges every notion of normalcy. The gathering brought together generations of staff and volunteers, united by a deep sense of pride in the path we have taken, a path of life, not of death; of connection, not of parting. HUG - Celebrating 30 Years Conferences
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 7
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 8 Thirty years ago, Prof. Nancy Caroline wrote what is considered the “Bible” of the Hospice of the Upper Galilee. We chose to share some of her inspiring words, words that have guided us from the very beginning until today, serving as a compass for the hospice’s values and the depth of our mission: “At the heart of hospice care lies excellent palliative medicine. The hospice team must be able to diagnose complications without sending the patient back and forth to the hospital for unpleasant tests. Moreover, the team must be aware of the availability of oncological treatments and their suitability for different symptoms. Excellent palliative care must be available to the patient seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. In saying this, I wish to emphasize that hospice is much more than palliative medicine. Hospice is teamwork. This means that every team member, equally, must know every patient, have access to information, and maintain a structured system of support and communication. Hospice does special things with patients and their families, logistical arrangements, fulfilling dreams, connecting to memories, tastes, and experiences, accessibility, and connection to the community. The most important gift hospice can give to a patient and their family is time: Time to carefully examine the patient, Time to learn their medical history, And most importantly, time to listen: to the patient in their bed, or to the family member calling in the middle of the night. Take the time to truly be there.” Thirty years later, we take great pride in the Hospice of the Upper Galilee’s ability to faithfully preserve the values and vision articulated by Prof. Caroline, while at the same time, to continue adapting ourselves to an ever-changing reality. We walk alongside our patients through life’s challenges, through wars, evacuations, loss and pain. Nevertheless, we continue to learn, to grow and to move forward. To be there, until the very last moment, with attentiveness, with love, and with compassion. From HUG’s Director, Dafna Abrahams From HUG’s Director Conferences
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 1 9 Just as she worked with children through art, allowing them to express their inner world through color and materials, so too did Lila bring healing to hospice patients by offering them a way to connect with the healthy place within themselves through creativity and the world of color. Lila was a cherished and vital part of the hospice team, both as a professional and as a friend. She was an example and a source of inspiration to us all: for her vitality, her quiet attentiveness, and her gentle wisdom. Even in her later years, she continued to give, to be present, and to accompany others with great sensitivity and compassion. We will remember her with deep love. May her memory be blessed. Lila was a member of Kibbutz Kfar Hanassi and was buried there on July 14th, 2025. In Loving Memory of Lila Hart
Hospice Upper Galilee | Looking Back At 2025 2 0 In Israel The Hospice of the Upper Galilee | https://hug.org.il/en/home-page/ Tzomet Coach, Sde Eliezer 1220500, ISRAEL Tel: +972-4- 6860317 | Fax: +972-4-6934127. Hug.galil.elyon@gmail.com Bank details in Israel: Bank Hapoalim - 12 Address: Branch: Rosh Pina 542 Account No.: 309009 IBAN: IL77-0125-4200-0000-0309-009 SWIFT : POALILIT TEL: 04-6868213/4/5 Secure payment with PayPal or by a Credit Card. Click to DONATE If you live in the USA, please send your tax-deductible donations to American Friends of The Nancy Caroline Hospice of the Upper Galilee P.O. Box 603048 Providence, RI 02906 info@afhug.org American Friends of The Nancy Caroline Hospice of the Upper Galilee is a tax-exempt organization as specified under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Click to DONATE PEF – Israel Endowments Funds, Inc. PEF is a tax exempt public charity, 501(c)(3), tax ID number 13-6104086. Please mail your check to or contact PEF: 630 Third Ave, Ste 1501, New York NY 10017 USA info@pefisrael.org Tel 212-599-1260 or Fax 212-599-5981 Please make sure to note that your donation is ן ntended for the Hospice for the Upper Galilee If you live in England: Checks may be sent to UK Toremet Limited Shenkers LLP, 4th Floor, Sutherland House 70/78 West Hendon Broadway London NW9 7BT United Kingdom Tel: 020 7078 0304 || 020 8203 8833 In addition, please send us an e-mail to confirm your ontribution details, Hug.galil.elyon@gmail.com If you live in Australia: Chai Charitable Foundation - https://chai.org.au/cause/HUG/ Donations
flippingbook.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTQ4MDQ5