Our care ambassadors are those employees who uphold Hospice of Southern Illinois’ standard for excellent hospice care and service by going above and beyond for patients, families, team members, or the community.
Care Ambassador
Melise Oakley
“Hospice chose me!”
It started with a shooting star. After the passing of her father, Melise was on Halfway Road by our Marion office asking for a sign. After seeing a shooting star as she was passing by, Melise knew this was it. “This was all in God’s timing,” she says.
Melise has been involved with our organization for 16 years. Turning her hospice experiences into a career, Melise officially started with Hospice of Southern Illinois in January, 2020.
Melise educates the community about Hospice of Southern Illinois. An extension of her father’s legacy, his 2-year old dog, Millie, serves not only as Melise’s sidekick, but as one of our pet therapy dogs; providing comfort to those in our program, particularly individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.
When she’s not busy providing education, Melise enjoys her free time with friends and family. She mentions “life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” A prime example of learning to dance in the rain, Melise emphasizes what a blessed life she has.
Bringing warmth and smiles to everyone she meets, we are truly fortunate to have her as a part of our organization.
