Mari’s Story – Healing from Loss with Suncoast Hospice Grief Support

Mari Villavicencio lost two very special people in her life in a short time span, her mami (mommy) and then her brother. Suncoast Hospice cared for her mami at home and Suncoast Hospice House Woodside, where she died with Mari at her bedside. But Mari wasn’t prepared for her brother’s sudden death in a motorcycle accident. Mari appreciated the support she received from Suncoast Hospice during her mami’s illness. So she knew she could turn to them again for help with her grief.

“Suncoast Hospice gave my mom the best two months. They also helped me as a caregiver, giving me much support and love. Suncoast Hospice has helped me to grow in so many ways. Its grief support program gave me that place where I could find inner peace. And doing the testimonial project has been so helpful because I can talk about my mami and brother. It is part of my therapy,” Mari said.

So touched by her Suncoast Hospice experiences, Mari became a volunteer to give back to the organization. She feels enriched by serving patients and families and dedicated to educating others about the benefits of hospice care.

“Many people think of hospice as a death sentence or that it’s just for people with cancer. I am so grateful and blessed to know what hospice is all about. I want to bring awareness to the community about Suncoast Hospice.”


Suncoast Hospice counseling and support services are available to anyone in Pinellas County regardless of whether you or your deceased loved one received our services.
Request services now or call us at (727) HOSPICE | 467-7423.