Family Caregivers Honored for Going the Extra Mile

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Millions of Americans find themselves in the role of family caregiver, devoting their time to help an ill or disabled loved one remain at home. Their inspiring acts of love and generosity often go unrecognized.

VNA Care Network & Hospice established the Extra Mile Awards over 10 years ago to honor these caregivers. This year’s awards were presented to Leigh-Anne Lawrence of Newburyport, Kristin Noone of Tewksbury, William Provencher of Millbury, and Robert Stephens of Allston.

Leigh-Anne Lawrence

Alice Walker wrote, “Is solace anywhere more comforting than in the arms of a sister?” Maria Francis, faced with terminal cancer at age 44, found solace in her sister, Leigh-Anne Lawrence.

When Maria was no longer able to care for herself, Leigh-Anne welcomed her into her own home. Leigh-Anne saw to Maria’s needs day and night, administering medications and seeing to her personal care. Yet Leigh-Anne’s love and devotion to her sister went beyond caring for her physical needs.

“Maria had many dreams and goals she would never be able to fulfill. Leigh-Anne talked to Maria, reassured her, and gave her the type of comfort we all can only hope for at the end of our lives,” said Robin Spaulding, clerk of the VNA Care Hospice board of directors, as she presented the award to Leigh-Anne.

The hospice team supported Leigh-Anne and her family during Maria’s last days. Leigh-Anne said, “Everyone who came (from VNA Care Network & Hospice) was incredible. …They were always there to answer questions. It’s amazing to me how much they know.”

Leigh-Anne is pictured, left, with Karen Green, president and CEO of VNA Care Network & Hospice.

Kristin Noone

Kristin and Shayne Noone were beginning the best days of their lives together when they had to face the unthinkable — Shayne was diagnosed with head, neck, and face cancer.

A typical day found Kristin attending to Shayne’s wounds, g-tube feedings, IV hydration, and hourly pain medications. She balanced Shayne’s needs with caring for their two children, helping with homework and taking her daughter to cheering or son to football. Nights were spent sitting by her husband’s side; he had difficulty sleeping for fear he wouldn’t wake up.

The hospice team from VNA Care Network & Hospice supported the Noones during this difficult time. Staff offered physical, emotional, and practical care to help the family make the most of their time together. Shayne passed away in September 2010 at age 41.

One hospice nurse shared that Kristin always went above and beyond the call of duty as a wife and mother and “represents the meaning of compassionate care.”

Robert Stephens

Robert Stephens found himself in the role of caregiver as his wife Judith’s MS progressed and left her home- and bedbound nearly 10 years ago. The disease is unpredictable, but Robert’s consistent care makes all the difference.

Robert sees to Judith’s personal care and takes extra precautions to keep her safe from infections and bedsores. The fact that Judith has not been hospitalized since 2006 is a testament to Robert’s attentive care.

VNA Care Network & Hospice provides home health care services to Judith. Robert said the care has “helped a great deal” in keeping Judith at home. “I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Pictured from left to right are Katherine Jennings, RN; Linda Landers-Robinson, RN; and Robert Stephens.

William Provencher

Caring for someone on a ventilator can be a daunting prospect. Yet William Provencher didn’t let a very steep learning curve frighten him from bringing his wife, Ruth, home.

William said the home health care services from VNA Care Network & Hospice “made a big difference. I knew nothing going into this and learned everything from them.” He soon became an expert in tube feedings, tracheostomy care, and more.

William brings humor to his wife’s care. One of their favorite jokes happens when William puts Ruth’s speaking valve on her trach. She gets one word out and he says, “Okay, that’s enough,” and moves as if to take it back. Ruth laughs so hard she can barely breathe.

One of their visiting nurses said, “William takes any changes and challenges as simply what it takes to be with his wife, which he wants more than anything.”

Pictured from left to right are William Provencher; Karen Green, president and CEO of VNA Care Network & Hospice; and Marcy Provencher.