05/29/2026
Sometimes the smallest moments create the biggest impact. ❤️
Ken was admitted to Unity’s hospice program in summer of 2025. A proud veteran, incredibly independent, and deeply talented artist, he rarely wanted to get out of bed and typically kept to himself watching TV.
As Unity’s staff got to know Ken better, we discovered one of his greatest passions — hand-painting fishing jigs for perch, panfish, and walleye. He had even won awards for his oil paintings over the years. Through Unity’s Gifted Wishes program, Ken received a gift basket of painting supplies and jigs so he could begin creating again. Unity also coordinated a special painting day with his family, Unity team members, and Edenbrook Green Bay facility staff. There was just one catch — Ken would need to get out of bed and join everyone in the activity room. Though hesitant, he agreed.
And what happened next was incredible.
Ken spent FIVE HOURS out of his room that day with a smile on his face the entire time. Surrounded by family, staff, snacks, laughter, and creativity, he immersed himself in painting jigs again. His wife and daughter-in-law attended, along with the amazing facility staff and Unity team members who helped make the day possible.
But the impact didn’t stop there.
In the days that followed, Ken requested to get out of bed four more times to continue working on his jigs — even without family or staff present. He still talks about how much joy the experience brought him and how proud he is of himself.
His family now plans to continue purchasing supplies so he can keep doing what he loves most.
Thanks to all our generous donors for their monetary and in-kind gifts to support Unity’s Gifted Wishes Program. Meaningful moments during the end-of-life matter. Reconnecting a hospice patient with their passion can bring back purpose, pride, joy, and connection in ways words can hardly describe. 🎣🎨
