ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Dancing with our stars. All-Star Party edition benefiting the UP Hospice Foundation held its season-opening gala Tuesday at the Congress Lounge in Ishpeming. Event Coordinator Lindsay Hemila says this competition made up of all volunteers, fits well with the hospice mission.
“These individuals who are learning something new are getting a dance professional that’s going to take them through all the scary moments. That’s exactly what happens with a hospice patient when we give them a nurse and a hospice team to take them through the scary moments,” said Hemilla.
Former champions Stacy and Jared Haughey have a personal connection to this cause.
“Well, we just really believe in the mission of what they’re doing, and we’re honored to be chosen to help out again this year and represent Gwinn and my grandmother received their services, and we’re just really happy to support all the great things they do,” said Stacy Haughey.
Tonight, the dancers found out what style of dance they are to perform, who their professional dance coach will be, and what theme they will adopt. For instance, one couple found out their style is salsa and their theme is disco. Now it’s up to the dancers and their coach to come up with a performance.
“If dancing and trying to make myself look not like a complete idiot raises money to help people. I’m very happy to do that,” joked Jared Haughey.
Many times, Insurance does not cover certain medications or medical equipment necessary for individualized care, just one of the many things, D. W. O. S. raises money for. I can attest that everyone who attended had a great time raising money to support this important mission. Quality, end of life care.
