Hugo's Sunset Cruise

We’ve all experienced how smells, sounds, and tastes can cause memories to come flooding back, making us feel transported to another time or place. Memories lift our spirits and cause us to forget reality - even if just for a few minutes. For Hugo, a 105 year-old veteran in the care of Tidewell Hospice, he cherishes the memories of time spent boating on the open water.

Patty, a social worker on Hugo’s care team, heard him reminisce about how much he loved boating. Given our region’s proximity to the coast, Patty wondered if it would be possible to get Hugo out for one last boat trip. She spoke with Hugo’s daughter, Donna, who agreed that he would be thrilled with the opportunity.

This is where our generous community shines, because funds from the Tidewell Foundation’s “Wishes and Humanitarian Fund” made it possible for Hugo to make the trip that would allow him to enjoy a sunset cruise with Donna. Care Van Transport ensured he was safely delivered to and from the dock where the Oasis Tiki Boat waited. Having been on the water for most of his life, it was a joyous occasion for Hugo. As he relished the salty spray of the sea and the rhythmic rock of the boat with Donna at his side, Hugo’s pain and feelings of uncertainty about the future subsided.

“We couldn’t have imagined this,” Donna said during the cruise as Hugo shook a tambourine while wearing a festive tropical lei and turquoise sunglasses. His utter delight was evident to everyone on board that afternoon.

Through its philanthropic support of Tidewell Hospice and the not-for-profit Empath Health affiliate organizations in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties, the Tidewell Foundation brightens the lives of patients, their families, and those who are grieving. Compassionate care is elevated through a variety of enriching programs and services, which include coordinating special wishes. Music, art, and pet therapies are additional options for patients and families as they cope with the barrage of emotions the end-of-life journey brings.

Learn more about the Tidwell Foundation and how you can help make wishes come true when you visit our website: www.TidewellFoundation.org or call 941-552-7546.