A Ride to Remember: Bill’s Day Out

Sometimes hospice care isn’t just about comfort; it’s about living fully in the moments we have. Our Compassus Hospice Case Manager Tessie Hilton in Peoria, IL, recently made one of those moments happen in the most beautiful way.

Bill, a patient known for his stubborn streak and quiet nature, rarely left his bed or socialized beyond his roommate. But during a recent care plan meeting, his power of attorney shared a heartfelt wish — to take Bill to her ranch home in Little America, a place he’d never seen since she bought it a year ago.

It took gentle encouragement from both the Compassus and facility staff, but eventually, Bill agreed to go on one condition: Tessie had to come too.

So, with the help of the activity directors, they made it happen. Bill’s eyes lit up as he arrived at the ranch, where he was able to pet Tripp, his POA’s horse. Since he couldn’t ride himself, he insisted Tessie take a turn in his honor — and she happily did.

The group then drove through Canton, reminiscing as Bill pointed out all the changes since his last visit. The day ended with a stop at a local ice cream shop for Bill’s favorite treat: a strawberry milkshake just the way he likes it.

What started as a simple wish turned into something much bigger: connection, joy and a moment of freedom that reminded everyone what hospice is truly about — honoring life one meaningful moment at a time.