For four years, Ron was her full-time caregiver, navigating the challenges of hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. By 2019, as Joyce’s condition worsened, hospice care became essential. Bluegrass Care Navigators (BCN) stepped in, providing medical equipment, emotional support, and a level of care that deeply touched Ron. At nearly 90 years old, Ron, an Eagle Scout, Army medic, and former insurance executive, carries forward his service-minded outlook by volunteering at BCN.

“The team at BCN was as supportive of me as they were of Joyce,” he said. “Not only did they get me through the process of the last months of Joyce’s life, but they counseled me and supported me.”

With their help, Ron ensured Joyce felt loved until her peaceful passing in 2020.

Even during this difficult season, Ron was grateful for the care his family received and knew he wanted to volunteer with BCN in the future. Shortly after Joyce passed, he suffered a stroke but worked hard on his recovery to be able to help others.

“I volunteer because of her and because of the care we received,” he said. “Their compassion made them my first choice as a place to give back."

For more than two years, he has dedicated more than 400 hours to making weekly care and bereavement calls. During these calls, he asks current patients and families what supplies they need to get them through the weekend, provides companionship and directs individuals to other services BCN offers, such as grief care.

Recently, he comforted a grieving family member who started crying when he asked how she was doing after her loved one’s passing. He listened and was able to guide her to BCN’s complimentary grief counseling services.

"The feeling of helping people is truly self-fulfilling,” he said. “It’s a two-way street—I often find that I receive just as much as I give, but helping others isn’t about doing it for yourself; it’s about making a difference. It reminds me that I’m part of something good."

Ron’s generosity extends beyond his time, as he also donates financially to Bluegrass Care Navigators as well.

“I have a leaf on one of the memorial trees in the garden in Lexington,” he said. “I visit it every once in a while, and think about Joyce, the care she received and the good her legacy left in the world.”

Bluegrass Care Navigators is dedicated to delivering expert care with compassion, ensuring each person receives the care they would want for their own family. Our mission thrives through the combined efforts of generous donors and selfless volunteers. By giving financially or volunteering your time, you can help us provide vital services to our community and ensure that no one passes alone.