PRESS RELEASE: November 13, 2008 For Immediate Release

MEDIA CONTACT:
Beverly Crowl, Public Relations Specialist
302-547-1816 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

As Delaware Hospice’s CEO and President, Susan D. Lloyd, RN, MSN, took a more hands-on approach—or rather “feet-on” approach--to fundraising when she raised more than $7,000 for the National Hospice Foundation and for Delaware Hospice by running the Marine Corps Marathon.

An avid 5K runner, Susan was recruited by Stuart Lazarus as a team member for the Run To Remember Program. Stuart Lazarus began Run to Remember in 2002 to honor the memory of his mother and to promote the cause of hospice care. Run to Remember team members receive training assistance from the Program as they raise money to benefit the National Hospice Foundation and a local hospice program of their choice. Susan decided that running a marathon would be an interesting personal goal as well as an opportunity to raise money for the National Hospice Foundation and Delaware Hospice. She agreed to participate and proceeded to train diligently for the challenge.

On Sunday, October 26th, Susan joined 18,000 other runners at the starting line of the 33rd annual Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. The weather turned out perfect despite heavy rain the night before. Susan remembered, “I was nervous, wondering if I would really be able to complete 26.2 miles. I had trained hard and done everything I could to prepare, but what if I just couldn’t do it? So many people were supporting me—my co-workers, board members, friends and family. I didn’t want to let them down or myself.”

However, the starting gun went off, she pushed aside all doubts, and took off on the beautiful, scenic tour of our nation’s capitol. A four-hour run gives someone plenty of time to reflect.

Susan said, “My Delaware Hospice shirt meant so much to me and I thought about our families many times during the race. Being able to run for them was so important. I know the money we raised will help. What an honor to be able to support them.”

“I was impressed by the marines who surrounded us on the course. Their spirit and enthusiasm was inspirational. We can be very proud of those serving our country. They deserve it!”

Susan finished the race in 4 hours and 21 minutes, exceeding her goal of 4 ½ hours. Through the generosity of her supporters, she raised more than $7,000 for Delaware Hospice and the National Hospice Foundation. She said, “I thank everyone for all of their encouragement and gifts from the bottom of my heart and would encourage others to participate in the Run To Remember Program.”

Learn more about how to participate in the National Hospice Foundation’s Run to Remember Program at: www.runtoremember.org.

About Delaware Hospice
Since 1982, Delaware Hospice has provided exceptional care and support to 30,000 patients and their families. Its mission is to help each patient, each day, live the fullest, most comfortable life possible. Delaware Hospice is the largest and only licensed, nonprofit, community-based hospice serving New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties in Delaware and southern Chester and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania. For more information about Delaware Hospice’s programs and services, upcoming events, or employment opportunities, call 800-838-9800 or visit our website, www.delawarehospice.org.