Marty Kivett: A Lifetime of Compassion in Hospice Care
At Compassus, our volunteers are the heart of our hospice program, and Marty Kivett exemplifies this spirit in every way. With 30 years of service in hospice care, Marty’s journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to making others feel special, loved and cared for.
Marty’s passion for volunteering began when she was just 15 years old at a mental health facility in her town. Over the three years she spent there, she provided comfort and companionship to patients by sitting with them, polishing their nails, reading books, styling their hair and listening to their stories. “I’ve always loved caring for people,” Marty says, a sentiment that has guided her through decades of service.
Though life led her down a different path – caring for her children and managing a daycare while her husband attended college – Marty’s desire to help others never waned. She often jokes with her children, who say she is a “hopeful nurse,” that while she did not have the opportunity to pursue a nursing degree, she found her true calling in hospice care.
Marty’s personal experience with loss deepened her connection to hospice. After her father passed away from cancer, Marty was inspired to take hospice classes just three months later. Her commitment to providing compassionate care only grew stronger when she cared for her mother during the months of her life. “It was a beautiful time for my mom and I and I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Marty says, reflecting on the profound impact of that experience.
Over the years, Marty has provided in-home and nursing home care, bringing comfort and dignity to countless patients. She believes that her work is part of God’s plan, a belief that has carried her through three decades of service. “I don’t need a job taking care of people – I’m doing what I love, and I’m blessed to have good health to be doing it for so long!” Marty says.
One of the most memorable moments of Marty’s volunteer journey was fulfilling a dying wish for one of her hospice patients. The patient’s dream was to meet Jim Harbaugh, who was then the quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts. With the help of her brother, who was the VP of Public Relations for the Colts, Marty was able to arrange a special day for the patient. A limo picked up the patient, his wife and a hospice nurse, taking them to a pre-season game. Jim Harbaugh not only met the patient on the field but also presented him with an autographed picture, jersey and football. The patient’s joy was immeasurable, and he passed away peacefully a few days later. Marty cherishes this experience, knowing she helped bring a moment of pure happiness to someone in their final days.
Marty’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that volunteers can have in hospice care. Her dedication to the “Care for Who I Am” philosophy at Compassus is evident in everything she does. She understands that hospice care is not just about meeting physical needs; it is about honoring the individuality of each patient, listening to their stories and ensuring they feel loved and valued.
As Marty continues to volunteer with our Indianapolis hospice program, we are incredibly grateful for her service, compassion and the countless lives she has touched. Volunteers like Marty are the backbone of our hospice care, providing support that goes beyond the physical needs of our patients and deeply enriches their lives and the lives of their families.
If you are inspired by Marty’s story and want to learn more about becoming a volunteer and paying it forward, click here. To learn more about our Indianapolis hospice program, click here.
Thank you, Marty, for your lifetime of compassion and dedication. Your contributions are invaluable, and your impact is immeasurable.
