11/11/2025
In honor of Veterans Day, here is a touching story about a veteran who experienced the true power of compassionate care:
Karl and Michelle Matson had some limited experience with hospice before admitting Karl’s mother to Hospice of Cincinnati. Karl and Michelle were able to witness firsthand the loving, multi-faceted care provided to their family member. As time went on, the Matsons became familiar and friendly with two key members of the HOC interdisciplinary team—the STNA (State Tested Nurse Assistant) who showed up at 6:30 a.m. at least twice a week to bathe, dress, and help with their mother, and Susan Schmidt, the volunteer assigned to provide companionship via weekly visits. Karl recalls thinking, “When I get on the other side of this, I can picture myself doing this work.” And that is exactly what he AND Michelle did. They completed the volunteer orientation, including a patient shadowing visit with staff. After his visit, Karl asked how he had done and was told, “You’re a natural.” To which Karl replied, “I learned from the best,” which was a glowing endorsement of his mother’s volunteer, Susan Schmidt.
As an Air Force veteran, Karl found his niche by becoming involved with HOC’s Veterans Program. He frequently participates in bedside pinning ceremonies where the veteran patient is recognized and honored for their service. These patients also often receive a handmade, stuffed “Buddy Bear “outfitted in camouflage. Karl fondly recalls one patient who named his Buddy Bear “Johnny” after his best friend who served two tours of combat with him. (Johnny was shot and killed the day before they were due to return home.) As the patient shared more about this time, he remarked, “Johnny is coming with me.”
Karl often reflects on his time as an HOC volunteer and is reminded of the words of gratitude shared by an STNA who cared for his mother in her final days. During conversation, the STNA said, “There’s no greater privilege than spending time with people at the end of life.” Karl couldn’t agree more.
If you’d like to learn about the services provided by HOC Navigators, including becoming a volunteer, please call 513-891-7700 or visit www.hospiceofcincinnati.org