Empath Health

09/01/2026

As World Alzheimer’s Month begins, we’re proud to see our dementia expertise contributing to the national conversation around thoughtful, well-prepared care.

Valerie Valiante, MSN, RN, Vice President of Empath Health’s PACE & Dementia Services, shared her expertise on the training and skills that matter most when caring for people living with dementia. Read the full article: https://health.usnews.com/best-senior-living/articles/the-specific-staff-training-to-look-for-in-a-memory-care-team

08/31/2026

Did you know that Empath Health provides grief support services at no cost to individuals and families across Florida?

Among these services is Camp Blue Butterfly, a weekend retreat for children and teens ages 8 to 17 who are grieving the death of a special person.

At camp, young people spend the weekend around others who understand what they're going through, exploring their feelings in healthy ways and finding support, hope and moments of joy along the way.

Through art, music and group conversations led by grief care professionals and volunteers, campers build friendships and come to understand they are not alone.

Camp will take place November 13-15 at DaySpring Camp and Conference Center in Parrish, FL.

Learn more: https://empathhealth.org/blue-butterfly/camp-blue-butterfly

08/30/2026

Today is National Grief Awareness Day.

Grief has no timeline and no single shape. It arrives differently for each of us and it can feel isolating. But no one should have to carry it alone.

Empath Grief Care walks alongside individuals and families across Florida with no-cost counseling and support. You don't have to be an Empath Health patient to lean on us.

Maybe you're coping with the death of someone you love. Maybe you're healing from a traumatic event or searching for a way to help a grieving child or teen feel less alone. Whatever you're facing, our counselors meet you with understanding, expert guidance and a steady hand.

You don't have to know what comes next. You just have to know we're here.

Explore our upcoming support groups and events: https://empathhealth.org/community-counseling

08/24/2026

We were excited to welcome Congresswoman Kat Cammack to the Empath Dementia Education and Care Center to learn more about the growing need for dementia education and caregiver support in our community.

During her visit, Rep. Cammack toured the center and heard from Rochelle Kelly Wristen, our executive director, and John Renyhart, whose vision helped establish the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program.

Thank you to Gary and Dawn Crawford for helping make this visit possible and for bringing together community leaders who share our commitment to education, support and compassionate care for those navigating dementia.

08/18/2026

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Javier Zaglul and Dr. Jorge Ahues, the newest graduates of the Trustbridge Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship and MSW Fellowship programs.

Through partnerships with HCA Florida JFK Hospital, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center and Florida Atlantic University, these programs help prepare the next generation of hospice and palliative care physicians and social workers.

We're celebrating not only this year's graduates, but also the colleagues, mentors and supporters who joined them in recognizing this important milestone and the impact they will have on patients, families and communities for years to come.

08/17/2026

Happy National Thrift Store Day!

Did you know Empath Health operates 13 not-for-profit resale store locations across Florida?

From Ocala and Clearwater to Sarasota and Fort Lauderdale, our resale stores help turn donated items into care for local communities.

Every purchase, donation and volunteer hour helps fund programs that reach beyond the bedside, including veterans services, music therapy, pet therapy, dementia education, children's grief support and training opportunities for future hospice and palliative care professionals.

Find your nearest resale store: https://empathhealth.org/resale-shops

08/07/2026

What do you say to someone who is dying?

TIME asked hospice experts that question, and our Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kate Brazzale shared the phrase she often recommends:

"Help me understand."

Rather than assuming how someone feels, those three words create space for honesty, connection, and the conversations that matter most.

Dr. Brazzale says the phrase opens the door for people to share their fears, hopes, and what they're experiencing.

Read the full article. Link in the comments.

07/29/2026

When someone you love has dementia, even a simple visit can come with a lot of questions.

Should I stay longer?

What should we do together?

What if they seem upset when I leave?

The truth is that there is no perfect approach. What matters most is showing up with patience, compassion, and a willingness to meet your loved one where they are.

Read our latest blog:

Visiting a loved one with dementia can be emotional and challenging. Learn seven practical tips that can help caregivers create meaningful moments and support connection.