Planting Seeds of Compassion: The Jennings Family Story
In the gentle embrace of nature, a seed takes root, growing into a mighty tree that offers shelter, comfort and peace to all who seek its shade. At Quiet Oaks Hospice House, we plant seeds of compassion every day, nurturing them into moments of solace for families facing life's most challenging journey. Today, we invite you to join us in cultivating this garden of care, as we share the profound story of the Jennings family.
Jeff and Travis Jennings, father and son, shared a bond forged through years of hockey tournaments, golf outings, a love of sports and unwavering support. Their story is one of courage, love and the unexpected turns life can take. It's also a testament to the vital role Quiet Oaks plays in our community during life's most difficult moments.
Travis, described by his mother Kathy, as "one of the most giving and kind people," faced his diagnosis of glioblastoma brain cancer with remarkable strength. For nearly four years, he endured surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation, all while continuing to touch lives with his generosity and warmth. "To know Travis was to love Travis," Kathy shared, her words echoing the sentiment of those who knew him.
As Travis's journey neared its end, Quiet Oaks became a sanctuary for the Jennings family. Sarah, Travis's wife, recalls. "Our experience at Quiet Oaks was phenomenal... It was a blessing - everyone was amazing. They were so good at assessing what was happening and reading my husband, knowing what to do. Everything was taken care of for us so that we could have those last precious moments. I had the opportunity to curl up in bed and cuddle with my husband and the kids could snuggle with their dad." For three weeks, the Quiet Oaks staff and volunteers had the honor of caring for Travis and supporting his family.
"Quiet Oaks is filled with angels," Kathy told us, her voice filled with gratitude. These 'angels' ensured that Tavis was never alone, allowing his family to focus on what mattered most - being present with their beloved husband, father and son.
In a heart-wrenching twist of fate, Jeff Jennings was fighting his own battle with cancer while supporting his son. Despite his own treatments and hospitalizations, Jeff's primary concern remained his family. "Jeff, who had a history of lymphocytic leukemia got pancreatic cancer, pneumonia and then they found the cancer had moved to his liver," Kathy explained. "Everything progressed and spiraled."
A Father's Final Wish
Jeff's final wish was simple: to be around long enough to help his son and family through this difficult time. In a bittersweet moment, Jeff was released from the hospital the very day Travis passed away at Quiet Oaks. Just months later, Jeff himself would spend his final days at Quiet Oaks. "As hard as it was to go back to Quiet Oaks," Kathy reflected, "It was the only place I wanted to be. I knew already the kind of loving care Jeff would get there."
Seeds of Remembrance
Sandy Neutzling, Jeff's longtime colleague and friend, honored both father and son in a beautiful way. She planted a tree at Quiet Oaks in their memory - a living testament to the Jennings' legacy and the enduring impact of compassionate care. This tree, much like the care provided at Quiet Oaks, will offer comfort and beauty to future families who find themselves on this difficult journey. It stands as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, seeds of hope and remembrance can take root and grow.
The Quiet Oaks Difference
What makes Quiet Oaks so special? It's the little things that add up, making a world of difference. Sarah fondly remembers how the staff went out of their way to get special fritter bread for Travis's French toast. "They made a special trip to Nelson Brothers," she recalled, touched by this act of kindness.
It's the ability to curl up in bed with a loved one. The welcome extended to family pets for one last visit. The expert navigation of complex family dynamics. "It amazes me how all the individuals there - nurses and volunteers - work for the patient and give that same gift to the caretakers of that loved one. We were blessed to bring our dog Emmy to Quiet Oaks so Travis could see her one last time. They had an especially strong bond as she was with him throughout his journey of recoveries. When Travis left our house, we didn't imagine it would be for the last time."
Your Role in This Garden of Compassion
Today, we ask you to join us in nurturing the seeds of compassion at Quiet Oaks. Your donation will help ensure that more families like the Jennings can find peace, comfort and exceptional care during life's most challenging moments. Your gift, no matter the size, helps us provide around-the-clock nursing care and ensures that no family is turned away due to financial constraints. Your contribution, like that tree planted in memory of Travis and Jeff, will grow and flourish, providing comfort, care and hope for years to come.
As Sandy Neutzling wisely noted, "After observing the compassion the staff had for this family, I told my family; I choose Quiet Oaks if needed." Your support today helps guarantee that Quiet Oaks will be here tomorrow, ready to embrace families in their time of need.
Double Your Impact!
We are thrilled to announce a $100,000 match made possible by Marlene & Richard Schlichting and LeRoy Erickson, in loving memory of his wife Carolyn. Each dollar raised up to $100,000 will be matched!
"He who plants a tree, plants hope." -Lucy Larcom
Quiet Oaks is a residential home for residents and families facing terminal illness. At Quiet Oaks, we provide an experience that honors and respects the dignity
of our residents and their families by focusing on a team approach to provide comfort and support for their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
Quiet Oaks is a 501(c)(3) Tax ID 20-3905841