Penelope Ohlendorf, Admissions Registered Nurse (RN) at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, has been named to the Frontline Honors Awards Class of 2025 by Hospice News.
To become a Frontline honoree, an individual is nominated by their peers. The candidate must be:
- A dedicated, high-performing frontline worker who delivers exceptional experiences and outcomes
- A passionate worker who knows how to put their vision into for the good of their respective industry, the patients and residents they serve, and their families
- An advocate for their industry and their fellow colleagues
Hospice News recently caught up with Ohlendorf to discuss her time in the hospice & palliative care industry.
HSPN: What drew you to this industry?
Ohlendorf: I just want to help dying people find comfort, peace, and dignity at the end of life.
HSPN: What’s a misconception you had about this work before you started – and how has reality differed?
Ohlendorf: I did not understand that the care we provide is not just physical. It is the care of the patient’s soul and the care of their loved ones. We need to understand the patient’s story and listen.
HSPN: Was there a moment in your career when you realized, “This work really matters”? What happened?
Ohlendorf: The day I extubated a patient and he died, his 3-year-old daughter wanted to sit with her father. She looked at me as she was sitting on her father’s lap and said, “This is my Daddy.” Yes it is, I thought to myself, and this is important.
HSPN: What’s the most valuable skill you’ve developed on the front lines that people often overlook?
Ohlendorf: Looking at the patient and assessing all signs of suffering, making sure we speak for those who cannot. Be their advocate and get them the care they need.
HSPN: What’s one decision leaders make that has a bigger impact on frontline workers than they might realize?
Ohlendorf: Saying thank you goes a long way.
HSPN: What’s a simple change – policy, tool, or mindset – that would make frontline work more effective?
Ohlendorf: I personally use amazing tools. I have a fantastic dictation app, wonderful technology, excellent support, and enough time to do my job well. No changes needed. My company is doing hospice right.
HSPN: What gives you optimism about the future of this industry, despite its challenges?
Ohlendorf: My company has a great vision and supports staff in supporting patients and families.
