Offers condolences

The entire family of Good Shepherd Hospice wants to offer its heartfelt condolences to the McCollum family, over the unexpected passing of Jim McCollum, a long-time supporter of our organization.

The Highlands County community is well aware of Jim's many commitments in the region, but those of us with Good Shepherd Hospice knew of Jim's belief in the importance of non-profit hospice organizations and his vital role in Good Shepherd Hospice, retaining its not-for-profit status.

Throughout the years he has been an unwavering source of support for Good Shepherd Hospice projects and events. It was not uncommon to find Jim actively involved in referring community people to our bereavement program or volunteering at Camp Brave Heart (our children's grief camp), in support of these programs.

Most recently he was able to see one of his dreams begin to become a reality for the patients and families of our local community, as Good Shepherd Hospice constructs the Bud and Donna Somers Hospice House and Resource Center in Sebring. Jim remembered the care that his sister had received at a hospice house in North Carolina and became dedicated to making sure that his local community had the same option for end-of-life care. Jim's encouragement, drive and passion for this project will always be remembered.

While Jim will not be with us to take part in the hospice house grand opening early next year, his legacy will live on in his strong advocacy for the compassionate, end-of-life care that Good Shepherd Hospice provides patients and families.

Good Shepherd will miss Jim McCollum, his ideas and his counsel, but we will always be truly grateful for his genuine dedication to the hospice mission.

Chris Bredbenner
Executive Director
Good Shepherd Hospice
Sebring