Our History
Through the years, our name has changed, but our care and compassion for our patients and families have been unwavering.
1980
Hospice of Darke County, Inc. began in the fall when a small group of individuals, guided by Daryl Parker, MD., came together with a shared vision of providing much-needed hospice care to our area.
1981
Hospice of Darke County, Inc. was incorporated in January and became one of the country’s first rural hospices. Mary Sue Rosenberger served as the first paid employee as Chief Executive Officer.
1982
A pilot program for patient care was conducted, and the first patient was admitted to hospice. Certifications were obtained from the Ohio Department of Health in February, making the program approved by Medicare and Medicaid as a hospice home care provider.
1990
Hospice of Darke County, Inc. and Mercer County Hospice joined to provide an expanded service area. The two later became known as State of the Heart Home Health and Hospice.
1999
In the fall, funds from a capital campaign and the generosity of individuals, community groups, corporations, and grants allowed for the construction of a new office building in Greenville, OH. That same year our agency, then known as State of the Heart Hospice, opened an office in Portland, IN. At this point in 1999, our agency had served over 2000 patients, and today EverHeart Hospice has provided hospice care for over 16,800 patients and families.
2000
In July, Camp Bearable, a camp for children experiencing a loss, was established. The camp was and continues to be staffed by physicians, social workers, music therapists, a bereavement coordinator, and volunteers. In 2016, Camp Bearable became known as Camp Encourage. Today the camp remains free to all children experiencing a loss thanks to the generosity of donors.
2013
The Hospice Care Center opened on the 4th floor of Wayne HealthCare in Greenville, Ohio. We felt there was a need in the community for inpatient hospice services. Our Hospice Care Center is available for short-term General Inpatient Care to manage uncontrollable symptoms, adjust medications, and provide education and support to transition patients on the next phase of their journey.
2016
State of the Heart Hospice became known as State of the Heart Care.
2021
After months of research, deep conversations and strategizing, State of the Heart Care relaunched as EverHeart Hospice. EverHeart Hospice encompasses a rich history in the Hospice field and has always maintained its roots by honoring life with trusted care.
Hospice is not a place, a building, an agency, or something tangible you can see and touch. Hospice is a concept, a feeling, a belief, an attitude about end-of-life care.
Pam Pohlman, Social Worker
