In 1974, when the National Cancer Institute first made possible the inauguration of the Home Care Program of Hospice, the idea of a program for the terminally ill and their families was virtually unknown in the United States. A few Americans were aware of the highly successful experiments at St. Luke's, St. Christopher's, and St. Joseph's, and other similar facilities in England, but knowledge of their programs was limited. It took courage--and determination--to apply the English model to the United States and to set on its way here a National Demonstration Center for services to the terminally ill and their families.

Our experience in Greater New Haven since 1974 has proved that there is a deep, unmet need in this country for services similar to those of Hospice, and that the concept is valid for meeting that need. Some 170 hospices are now in various stages of development in 39 states and the District of Columbia. All of these hospices are applying our New Haven model to their own situations.

We in Hospice are proud and honored to be in the forefront of this highly important aspect of caregiving. We are grateful to the National Cancer Institute for making this opportunity possible.