Fulfilling Lifelong Dreams at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Our mission is rooted in the belief that every patient deserves to be honored and supported in their unique journey. This October, the Compassus Clovis, New Mexico hospice program exemplified our ‘Care for who I am’ philosophy by coming together to fulfill a special wish for treasured patient and lifelong New Mexico resident, Michelle Salas.

Michelle had spent her life watching the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta on television but had always dreamed of seeing the event in person. When our Hospice Care Consultant, Nellie Aragon, learned of this wish, the Compassus team quickly responded. Within days, they had arranged hotel accommodations, tickets to the Balloon Fiesta, and transportation to make Michelle’s dream a reality.

Accompanied by her brother Donald and her son Michael, Michelle was overjoyed to finally experience the magic of the Balloon Fiesta up close. She kept saying, “God bless you all for doing this for me.” To add to her joy, she even had the opportunity to meet local celebrity and weather forecaster Steve Stucker, who graciously gifted her a beautiful cross to take home.

This special trip was made possible thanks to the collective efforts of the Compassus Clovis team and community partners. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Debaca Family Practice for transporting Michelle from her hometown of Fort Sumner to Albuquerque, and to Paradise Hills UMC in Albuquerque for ensuring she made it safely back home.

Michelle’s story is a testament to the Compassus commitment to advancing well-being and honoring the quality of life, even in life’s final chapters. By listening to and acting on the wishes of our patients, we reaffirm our dedication to compassionate care that truly makes a difference.

Learn more about the Clovis, New Mexico hospice program.