Grass Valley, CA — April 4, 2025 — Foothills Compassionate Care honored the recipients of the 2025 Dame Cicely Saunders Awards on April 3, 2025. This annual event celebrates individuals and organizations who quietly dedicate themselves to compassionate end-of-life care, embodying the spirit of Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice movement.
A Legacy of Compassion
Dame Cicely Saunders revolutionized end-of-life care by emphasizing the importance of addressing not just physical pain but also patients’ emotional and spiritual needs. Her holistic approach laid the foundation for modern hospice care, focusing on dignity, comfort, and patient and family support.
Celebrating Our 2025 Honorees
This year, we are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Dame Cicely Saunders Awards.
- Claydon Geriatrics – Community Partner Award
For their commitment to partnering with Foothills Compassionate Care and home-based palliative care, advocacy for patients with complex needs, and decades of service to those facing life-limiting illnesses. - Tom Fitzsimmons – Community Member Award
For using his platform as KNCO’s long-time broadcaster to educate, uplift, and support the work of local nonprofits, including consistent and heartfelt advocacy for palliative and hospice care. - Hal Arnstein, LVN – Care Provider Award
For his deep compassion and decades of dedicated service, delivering personal, hands-on care to patients and families during their most vulnerable times. - Vicki Graham, RN – Care Provider Award
For her exceptional skill, warmth, and commitment to nursing excellence, going above and beyond to provide dignity and comfort to every patient.
“It’s truly a privilege to honor these remarkable individuals and organizations,” said Heidi Wingo, Executive Director of Foothills Compassionate Care. “Their dedication and compassion have profoundly impacted our community, and we are deeply grateful for their unwavering support in providing compassionate end-of-life care.”
Continuing the Mission
At Foothills Compassionate Care, we remain dedicated to providing holistic support to patients and their families, ensuring everyone receives the dignity and care they deserve during life’s most challenging chapters. We extend our deepest gratitude to all our donors, volunteers, staff, and community partners who make this mission possible. Together, we continue to build a community that fully embraces the journey of life and death.
