Hero’s Hope program comforts Veterans in their final days

Cincinnati VA has introduced the Hero’s Hope initiative, an inspiring program dedicated to fulfilling the final wishes of Veterans in hospice care. By offering moments of joy, comfort and renewed purpose, this heartfelt endeavor aims to make a significant impact during Veterans’ final days.

Dreamed of being a deputy sheriff

The Hero’s Hope initiative began with a simple wish. Bob had always dreamed of becoming a Brown County deputy sheriff, a goal he held close even as life took him down different paths. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War at 17. Three years later, he returned home only to find out he was still too young to become a law enforcement officer.

Unable to pursue his dream at that time, Bob enlisted into the Marine Corps. Over the years, though, he left his dream behind—though he also never forgot it.

Bob shared this long-held dream with nurse Jamie Kuhlman at the Cincinnati VA Community Living Center. Moved by his story, Kuhlman contacted Nurse Christina Thorning, who immediately set the plan in motion by enlisting the help of Cincinnati VA’s Director Jane Johnson.

Thorning reached out to Sheriff Gordon Ellis at the Brown County sheriff’s department and, within 12 hours, Ellis responded by deputizing Bob as an honorary Brown County deputy sheriff.

Ellis also provided Bob with a Brown County patch, which Bob wore proudly every day. Bob also received a patch from VA Cincinnati Chief of Police Jon Maggard, along with an honorary police certificate.

Solace and hope

The program’s mission extends beyond wish fulfillment. By granting wishes and creating meaningful experiences, Hero’s Hope offers solace and hope to Veterans and their families during a challenging time.

Every Veteran referred to Cincinnati VA’s inpatient hospice program will be offered a “Hero’s Hope” coin, which symbolizes hope and serves as a keepsake for the family, representing the lasting impact of the program.

While the Hero’s Hope Initiative is still in its early stages, VA Cincinnati has plans for its expansion. The goal is to share the initiative nationwide, providing hope and comfort to more Veterans. With the support of Cincinnati VA employees, volunteers and community members, Hero’s Hope is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of Veterans and their families.

Bob passed in June 2024, his wish fulfilled.