The Frances M. Loess Life Legacy Project 

The purpose of The Life Legacy Project is to make available and convenient the opportunity for patients to record the stories and memories of their lives. This service is provided by the volunteers of Hospice & Palliative Care of Greater Wayne County and is paid for through a special fund initiated by Frances and Henry Loess. 

Fran Loess began volunteering for hospice in Wayne County before there was an official hospice office. She was a part of the original group of citizens who formed to bring hospice to this area. She was a member of the very first volunteer training class. Fran’s work in direct care enhanced the quality of life of many individuals. In addition, her work as a founder, a board member and mentor to many has enhanced the mission of this hospice as a whole. Fran’s volunteer work for hospice continued unabated until she became a hospice patient herself in 2005. It was Fran’s wish that this Life Legacy Project be one of her legacies to this organization.

The benefits of reminiscence and life review have long been known. They include:

• Reducing loneliness
• Improving cognitive ability
• Helping maintain self-esteem
• Reducing depression
• Helping with grief issues
• Providing a sense of control by reclaiming milestones from the past
• Providing catharsis through remembering joy and pain
• Providing a place for interaction

Wouldn’t you like the next generation to know about...

...your childhood home?

...your school years?

...your first kiss?

...how you met your spouse?

...the sports you love?

...your love for music?

...how you found your life’s work?

...your military experience?

...your favorite books and movies?

...your travels?     

Perhaps you would like to pass along your memories of historical events. Some people prefer to talk about personal philosophy, their beliefs and life lessons, rather than remembered events.

The most important thing to know is that this recording should be the way you want it to be and we will work very hard to make it that way.

If you are interested in knowing more about the Loess Life Legacy Project or wish to schedule a recording session, just talk to your Hospice Social Worker. We will work hard to make sure the process is as easy and convenient for you as possible.