Located at 40th & Normal Blvd., HoriSun Hospice is a local agency that provides help, hope and comfort to those facing a life-limiting illness. The mission of HoriSun Hospice is to deliver the highest level of holistic hospice care with honor and respect for patients and their families. Mandy Miller, RN, BSN, CHPN is the Director of Clinical Services at HoriSun Hospice (www.horisunhospice.com).
How did you get started in the business? – I worked as a Hospice Aide at a Hospice House when I was younger. I loved that job and it provided a wonderful foundation for my nursing career. As a nurse I had the privilege of working in ICU and loved my work there, but it was difficult to provide holistic care in that setting so I was automatically drawn back to Hospice Care.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – As a nurse and true patient advocate, that provides many challenges in itself. Hospice nursing is directed toward meeting the comprehensive needs of patients and their families across the continuum. It is most challenging to be a leader and vigilant advocate for the delivery of dignified and humane care. There are multiple responsibilities for care at the end of life which are intensified by circumstance, but ultimately are grounded in the fundamentals of nursing ethics and practice throughout the life continuum. Hospice is difficult work that requires you to maintain professionalism and compassion, while honoring your own personal integrity.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I am most proud of just being a nurse. I did receive the 2015 NHPCA Spirit of Hospice Award and I continue to be humbled that I was chosen for this award.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have been married to my husband Jeff for 14 years. We have a daughter Izabella who is 5 years old and two dogs that are counted as kids.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Adopting our daughter Izabella. The journey was overwhelming, authenticating, humbling and beautiful. Izzy keeps life in perspective for us.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I love to do anything with family and friends. I also cherish my time alone.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – My dad has given me so much great advice throughout my life. The root of all of his advice and teachings always circled around my mantra now, ‘Always do the good and right thing.’
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Giving.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? – I would improve basic life situations for everyone. I’d love for everyone to be equal, happy and purposeful.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Gardening. I love to dig in the dirt. It’s my therapy.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – I would operate an animal rescue and a pumpkin farm.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Sebastian’s Table and Blue Sushi Sake Grill.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Princess Diana or Eleanor Roosevelt.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached at (402) 484-6444, via email at mmiller@horisunhospice.com, or readers may view our website at www.horisunhospice.com.