Meet Joy: Hospice Heart Honoree

Meet Joy: Joy Hester is a Bereavement Coordinator within our Toledo, OH Elara Caring Hospice location.

For the past several years, Joy has received numerous “Hospice Heart” nominations from patients and families she has served in their end-of-life journey. These individuals have made gifts to our Elara Caring Hospice Foundation in honor of the care Joy has provided to them.

One family states, “all of your prayers and comforting words meant so much to not only dad, but me too.” Another family reflects, “You were all so supportive and compassionate! We appreciate all you did for mom and for us. We are truly thankful for Elara Hospice.” A third family member simply states, ” Joy was a comforting presence.”

When reflecting upon how she serves others as a Bereavement Coordinator, Joy states, “I love serving as a hospice bereavement coordinator because it is a sacred privilege to walk with people in their most tender moments of loss. Being able to offer presence, compassion, and a steady support when words often fall short reminds me that love still speaks even in grief. I am honored to help families feel seen, heard, and gently cared for as they navigate sorrow, while holding space for healing, hope, and meaning to unfold in its own time.”

We are grateful to Joy for offering compassionate bereavement care and inspiring such thoughtful giving that supports other patients and families receiving end-of-life care.

We invite you to consider honoring a hospice care provider who positively impacted you by making a gift and offering recognition and appreciation here: Hospice Hearts – Elara Caring Hospice Foundation