Friends of Karen Honored with “Team Award” by Hospice Care Network

Friends of Karen, was recently honored with a Team Award from Hospice Care Network for their collaborative work during the final stages of life by offering care and comfort both to children and to those with whom they share their lives.

“We have witnessed first-hand the commitment and passion of this unique organization,” said Mary Gravina, Assistant Vice President of Counseling Services at Hospice Care Network. “Our friends at Friends of Karen are often the voice of reason, the movers of mountains, the lenders of hope. They intuitively know what is most important to a sick child and have repeatedly gone above and beyond to assure that serious illness need not rob children of their childhood. They have taught us that even when coping with a life threatening illness, the simply joys of childhood and the intimacy of family life can still be experienced and enjoyed.”

Friends of Karen, a tri-state children’s charity with offices in Port Jefferson, Manhattan and Purdys, New York began in 1978 when family friends came to the aid of a couple and their 16-year-old daughter, Karen, who was terminally ill. More than 30 years later, thousands of children and their families living in the tri-state area have received financial, emotional and advocacy assistance from this important organization. Together with Hospice Care Network, they work to keep the family unit stable during a most difficult time, helping patients to live in peace and dignity surrounded by family and friends in the environment they are most comfortable.

For more information on Friends of Karen call 631.473.1768 or visit friendsofkaren.org