Honoring Those Who Served: Our Commitment to Veterans

Too often, the heroes who once wore the uniform find themselves forgotten when their time of need arrives. At Big Bend Hospice, we believe that no one who served this country should ever face the end of life alone, overlooked, or unsupported. That is why our Veterans Services program exists: to ensure every veteran is seen, honored, and cared for with dignity.

September Six Week Grief Group

Big Bend Hospice offers a four-week grief support group for individuals dealing with a loss. Trained grief counselors lead the group in a safe space where you can talk openly, learn healthy ways to cope with your grief, and connect with others.

Investing in People, Leading with Purpose

At Big Bend Hospice, our greatest strength has always been our people. In a time when healthcare often feels rushed and distant, we remain committed to something more personal: leading with heart, purpose, and a deep connection to the community we serve.

In his latest message, CEO Bill Wertman reflects on what it means to invest in people, and why the newest additions to our leadership team represent more than just new titles. They reflect a bold, compassionate vision for the future of hospice care in the Big Bend.

The Oak Connection | August 2025

Rooted in compassion and dedicated to care, The Oak Connection is Big Bend Hospice’s community newsletter, your inside look at the mission, people, and programs that make your hometown hospice truly special.

Stay connected with the stories, updates, and events that highlight the mission of Big Bend Hospice.

Dr. Glenn Bass Golf Tournament

Join us Monday, September 8 at Golden Eagle Eagle Golf Course and play “FORE” a great cause!

Founded 25 years ago by former Big Bend Hospice Foundation Trustee and longtime supporter, Reverend Dr. A. Glenn Bass, this golf tournament has become a premier tournament community while supporting Big Bend Hospice’s mission of inspiring hope.

The Hopeful Journey Caregiver Awareness Walk

Big Bend Hospice is proud to partner with Madison County Memorial Hospital to host a Caregiver Awareness Walk in honor of caregivers in Madison County and the surrounding communities. This meaningful event is designed to celebrate, uplift, and support those who selflessly care for others.

Big Bend Hospice Appoints Joel Garr as Chief Information Officer

Big Bend Hospice and Seven Oaks Health are pleased to announce the return of Joel Garr as Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective August 1, 2025. With more than 20 years of experience in healthcare technology and a proven track record of leadership, Joel brings the expertise and vision needed to support our continued growth. His return marks an important step forward as we strengthen our systems and expand services to better meet the needs of patients, families, and our community.

Big Bend Hospice Appoints Chief Financial Officer

We’re excited to welcome Heather Reynolds, CPA, MBA, as Big Bend Hospice’s new Chief Financial Officer!

With over 25 years of experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to mission-driven work. Her leadership will help strengthen BBH’s financial foundation as we continue to expand access to compassionate hospice and palliative care across the Big Bend region.

Join us for our four-week Adult Grief Support Group

Big Bend Hospice offers a four-week grief support group, beginning July 7, for individuals dealing with a loss. Trained grief counselors lead the group in a safe space where you can talk openly, learn healthy ways to cope with your grief, and connect with others.

Big Bend Hospice Appoints Chief Operating Officer

Bill Wertman, Chief Executive Officer of Big Bend Hospice and Seven Oaks Health announced that Amanda Gustafson, Executive Director, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of the organization effective May 1, 2025.

In her new role, Amanda will continue overseeing hospice operations as well as our new retail store Oak Tree Treasures and take the lead in moving the organization forward.  

Meet our vibrant 102-year-old patient receiving Music Therapy

At Big Bend Hospice, Music Therapy is part of our patient’s hospice care team and available to at no cost. Music Therapy can help improve quality of life for patients in many ways, such as reducing anxiety, better sleep, and sparking cherished memories.

Big Bend Hospice’s promise to North Florida

Nonprofit hospices like Big Bend Hospice are facing unprecedented challenges in today’s healthcare landscape, where for-profit providers dominate and community-centered care is at risk of fading away. Yet, Big Bend Hospice remains steadfast in its mission, finding innovative ways to expand services while preserving its compassionate, family-focused approach.

Big Bend Hospice Opens Oak Tree Treasures: A New Resale Boutique Benefiting Local Families

Oak Tree Treasures is more than just a store— it exemplifies our mission of ensuring that every family has access to the highest quality hospice care, regardless of financial barriers. All proceeds from the store will directly support our hospice services and therapeutic programs, helping us bring comfort and dignity to families during life’s most challenging moments.

Big Bend Hospice has been voted Tallahassee Magazine's 2024 Best Charity/Nonprofit!

Thank you to everyone who voted for us. We’re proud to be part of this community and grateful for the continued support!

Big Bend Hospice participating in FSU program to Enhance Age-Friendly Training & Support Staff Career Growth

By 2040, the Sunshine State is expected to have almost 7 million older adults, with more than 1.2 million of those age 85 or older.

How Can We Help You?

No matter where you call home, Big Bend Hospice is here to support you and your family every step of the way. Our Hospice Care Team is a group of specially trained healthcare professionals who help patients and their families create a peaceful and meaningful end of life journey.

How Can We Help You?

No matter where you call home, Big Bend Hospice is here to support you and your family every step of the way. Our Hospice Care Team is a group of specially trained healthcare professionals who help patients and their families create a peaceful and meaningful end of life journey.

Hospice Programs, Enhancing Quality of Life

Big Bend Hospice provides various therapeutic programs alongside your hospice care to support both patients and families, regardless of the level of care required.

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Inspiring Hope since 1983

Established in 1983 as the pioneer non-profit hospice in Tallahassee, Big Bend Hospice has provided compassionate end-of-life care to individuals and families across Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla counties for over 40 years.

Inspiring Hope since 1983

Established in 1983 as the pioneer non-profit hospice in Tallahassee, Big Bend Hospice has provided compassionate end-of-life care to individuals and families across Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla counties for over 40 years.

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Here When You Need Us

We’re only a call away whenever you, your loved one, or your patients need our care. Any day of the year, any time of the day, we are here.