Mark Blum, MD FAAHPM
Bristol Hospice Medical Group, Inc.
Sacramento, CA
In 1980, my journey into the realm of hospice and palliative care began unexpectedly. Amidst my father’s battle with acute leukemia, my hospital sought a medical director to pioneer their hospice program. Initially, I brushed aside the opportunity, consumed by my father’s illness and the challenging decisions surrounding his end-of-life care. However, after witnessing firsthand the importance of honoring his wishes and easing his journey, I reconsidered the offer.
Soon after stepping into the role of Medical Director, I became acquainted with the Academy and attended my first Annual Meeting in Atlanta. It provided a profound sense of camaraderie among fellow professionals passionate about hospice medicine and an opportunity for educational programming.
As I transitioned into retirement, I made it a priority to continue supporting educational initiatives, ensuring a lasting impact through my charitable contributions. My commitment to giving to AAHPM stems from a desire to bolster its education efforts, community-building, and mission as a whole.
Reflecting on the evolution of the field from its infancy to its current thriving state reinforces my belief that supporting the Academy will result in a long-lasting impact on the field. I envision my donations contributing to the continued growth and advancement of hospice and palliative care, ultimately benefiting those we serve.
I believe every member has a stake in promoting the interests of medical professionals in the HPC field. By giving to the Academy, we uphold its mission and ensure the provision of high-quality care for patients and families facing serious illness. Together, we can foster a community dedicated to advancing compassionate care.