In 2007 Hospice of South Georgia fulfilled a dream with the opening of Langdale Hospice House. Thanks to the generosity of Mr. Harley Langdale, Jr. and his family, the lead gift for the naming of Langdale Hospice House was given to South Georgia Medical Center Foundation during their fundraising campaign.  Mr. Harley Langdale, Jr. chose to honor his wife of 63 years, Mrs. Eileen Langdale, and his sisters-in law, Mrs. Margaret Langdale and the late Mrs. Jackie Langdale, with his kind contribution.A capital campaign provided complete funding for the construction of this special facility.

Traditionally, hospice care is provided at home where family, friends, or hired caregivers tend to the patient and receive support and instruction from Hospice staff. Most patients and their families choose a home setting for Hospice care. This setting of care will remain the focus of Hospice of South Georgia.

There are times, however, when a caregiver needs a respite, or a break. Other times patients may have symptoms, like pain, that require intensive management until symptoms can be brought under control. These situations call for an alternative setting for a patient to receive care on a short term basis at the Langdale Hospice House.

Fifteen private rooms in the Hospice House provide round the clock, state of the art care for individuals in a beautiful home-like setting. Langdale Hospice House is licensed to care for 16 patients. One larger room can accomodate 2 related patients or a pediatric patient. Nestled in a quiet, pine-filled neighborhood on Pineview Drive in Valdosta, Langdale Hospice House greatly enhances the ability of Hospice of South Georgia to provide a more comprehensive spectrum of services for hopsice patients and their families.

The Hospice House is the first of its kind in the community. Our goals are to provide a place where patients will feel comfort, security, a positive quality of life, and room for visitors to feel welcome.

“We didn’t want an institutional feel, so we designed the House to avoid long hallways, and included lots of windows and sunrooms for natural light,” says Susan Bowden, Hospice of South Georgia director. “The center of the House is just like the center of our homes, with a living room, fireplace, kitchen, and dining room.  There is also a library and a chapel, as well as a playroom for children.”

Hospice of South Georgia gives its patients first priority for care at the Langdale Hospice House. Other hospice providers may admit to the Langdale Hospice House by transferring the patient to the care of Hospice of South Georgia for the period of inpatient confinement.

“This is going to be a blessing to our community,” said Ginger Paulk, as she stood with her husband, Sheriff Ashley Paulk.
“Most times when people give to different causes, they do so looking into the faces of the ones who will benefit. The people who gave for this home, though, have no idea who it’s going to serve. …It could be any of us, standing in need of its services.”
                   -As quoted in the October 17, 2006  Valdosta Daily Times                   article: “Party Celebrates Progress of Langdale Hospice                   House”