Hundreds of balloons lifted skyward from downtown Odessa Tuesday, each commemorating someone who was served by StarHospice since 2001.

The private company also honored those who have served those in the Permian Basin who need hospice and home care.

Rosie Lopez, marketing executive for StarCare, said it is important to recognize the nurses, physicians, volunteers and others involved in hospice care.

"This is really about bringing public awareness (to our workers) and to recognize those with life-limiting illnesses," Lopez said. StarCare was established in 1997 and is comprised of five home-based services including home health, physical therapy, medical equipment and supplies and hospice services.

Nicole Izaguirre, volunteer coordinator for StarHospice, said there are many ways that people can help.

"Our volunteers sit with patients who may be lonely, run their errands and once a month we have patient appreciation. The volunteers will bake cookies and cake and this holiday season, we put together Thanksgiving baskets," Izaguirre said.

Volunteers can work on a regular basis or just perform a one-time good deed. Izaguirre said volunteers have also done yard work and clerical duties.

Julia Galindo, R.N., B.S.N, said working for hospice is very rewarding and often workers get attached to their patients.

"When you are seeing a patient on a weekly basis, you really bond with the patient and their family so when someone dies, it is heartbreaking," Galindo said.

How to help

For volunteer opportunity information, call Nicole Izaguirre at 580-7707.