Hospice Community Care seeks to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families who are facing a life limiting illness. They provide social and spiritual services, as well as services provided by RN’s and CNA’s and the support of their office staff, volunteers and communication liaisons. Rae Ann Barnett is the Admissions RN for Hospice Community Care.
How did you get started in the business? – I survived a life changing event, forcing me into self-awareness. My position with Hospice Community Care allows me to enroll and admit patients for services, and I feel that the ease of sliding into my current position has validated the twists and turns since that time.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – In the past it has been a source of frustration when I haven’t received adequate preparation or guidance, or had professional expectations clearly outlined.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Recognizing that I came to a point where changes were needed. I had suffered the loss of a child and my struggles were apparent to those around me, but I didn’t understand this until I came to Hospice Community Care and my job fit into my life like a glove.
Tell me a little about your family. – I have three daughters, ages 27, 28 and 29. My son, a surprise later in life, would be turning 21 this fall. I have two lovely grandchildren, Logan (4) and Brody (8 mos.).
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – My life changed when my son JR died.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Float around on a boat with my family and friends.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I think like Erma Bombeck. I can sometimes hear her tell my stories in her dry, witty humor. I wish I would have thought of reality TV or radio, I can put a twist on situations at the most awkward or troubled times.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? – To treat my grief of losing my son as a handicap. It is here for the rest of my life, but I can learn to live with it and accept it.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Worldly
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – The Mary Tyler Moore Show theme song.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – To become fully relaxed, as I have a knack for finding that state of mind between being awake and the stillness of twilight.
Which talent would you most like to have? – Humor, like stand-up comic talent or even just to be able to laugh more at life.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Entertainment, mainly singing or dancing.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Old Chicago
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Mother Teresa. If wisdom in the highest sense could be found it one person, it would be her.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – By phone at (402) 328-2350 or visit the Hospice Community Care website at www.hospicecarenebraska.com.