Vietnam Vets Invited to Enjoy Heartfelt Thanks of the Community at Hospice of the North Coast’s March 30th “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans” Celebration
April 12, 2018“Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day Celebration” helps Hospice of the North Coast achieve Level Four of the We Honor Veterans program
April 26, 2018Most locals know Dale McVey from Surf Bowl in Oceanside, the bowling alley he proudly owned for fourteen years. Dale loved the sport and owned several bowling alleys throughout California. He even met his wife Karin at one, in Bakersfield.
Dale and Karin celebrated 43 years of marriage last July, and earlier this year Dale achieved another milestone – his 80th birthday. A celebration was held in Las Vegas with close friends. Dale was excited to be able to take this trip, having started hospice care with Hospice of the North Coast in January.
Dale and Karin drove to Sin City from Oceanside, a trip they were treated to by their son Jeff. They were looking forward to eating good food, doing some gambling and most importantly, spending time with friends.
Jeff arranged for his parents to stay in a beautiful hotel room where they could take a break from the slot machines and game tables. On their last night in town, the group headed to dinner in a private dining room at their hotel. When they stepped inside, Dale was surprised with a special birthday celebration complete with cake, a DJ spinning his favorite tunes and Dale’s favorite part of the night – an Elvis impersonator aptly named, “Big Elvis.”
“Dale needs to be doing things,” Karin said. “He likes to get out, see people, look out at the ocean.” When Dale isn’t partying in Vegas, Karin takes him to Oceanside Beach, along with their Tibetan Terrier, Cooper.
The care team working with Dale had the pleasure of getting to know both Karin and Dale and what a special family they have. The feeling was mutual. Dale said of his team, “they’re great, each one of them.” Karin added, “It’s such a relief to have someone to call. Our five kids are on the east coast; friends are scattered throughout the country. It’s so nice being able to have not only the support but all of the medications and supplies we need, right when we need them. Each person taking care of Dale has been wonderful – showing us concern and generosity. Our family takes comfort in that.”
Dale McVey was on service with Hospice of the North Coast for 3 months. He passed away peacefully at home on March 24th. Dale’s experience exemplifies HNC’s motto:
Your Life. Your Choice. Your Way.