CULLMAN, Ala.– Mayor Woody Jacobs presented a proclamation recognizing November 2026 as Hospice and Palliative Care Month in the city of Cullman during a ceremony held Monday, Oct. 26, in the mayor’s office. Representing Hospice of North Alabama at the presentation were Shellee Blaxton, Anna Dove, Julie Doss and Cecily Miner.
The proclamation recognizes the important role hospice and palliative care professionals play in providing comfort, dignity and support to patients and families facing serious illness. This year’s national theme, “Care You Can Trust,” emphasizes compassionate, quality care and helping families make informed decisions about their loved ones’ needs.
“We’re fortunate to have several hospice organizations serving Cullman and the surrounding area,” said Jacobs. “These folks do important work, helping people and their families through some of life’s hardest times. We appreciate every one of them and the care they provide to our community.”
Cullman is served by several hospice care organizations, including Hospice of North Alabama, Cullman Regional Hospice, Aveanna Hospice of Cullman, Enhabit Hospice, Gentiva Hospice and Affinity Hospice. These organizations provide care and support to patients and families, helping manage pain and symptoms while addressing emotional, spiritual and practical needs.
Shellee Blaxton of Hospice of North Alabama, which has served the Cullman community for 20 years, emphasized the importance of having local hospice providers available to families.
“We’ve been here in Cullman for 20 years, and we’re local,” said Blaxton. “Our office is right behind the Christmas market, and we want people to know we’re here when they need us. We’re proud to be part of this community and to care for our neighbors.”
While hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life for individuals nearing the end of life, palliative care can be provided at any stage of serious illness, including alongside treatments intended to cure or manage a condition. Both approaches emphasize personalized care, dignity and support for patients and their loved ones.
The proclamation also recognizes the physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, volunteers and family caregivers who work together to meet patients’ physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
Jacobs encouraged residents to recognize and thank the hospice and palliative care professionals throughout the community whose dedication makes a difference in the lives of patients and families every day.
