Honey Lake Hospice announces Marge Dunlavy Memorial Scholarship recipient

March 30, 2021 Staff

Honey Lake Hospice recently announced the recipient of the Marge Dunlavy Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded annually to the most deserving applicant who is pursuing a degree in a health related field with a special interest in gerontology, oncology or hospice and palliative care.

This year’s $1,500 award goes to Samantha “Sam” Conway who is pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Sacramento State University.

Born and raised in Northern California, Conway completed her business degree, then worked and managed health clubs where she was exposed to rehabilitative exercises. “In rehabilitation I was exposed to clients who were battling back from injuries, learning to cope with chronic conditions or diseases, and learning to adjust to new levels of agility and mobility.”

She started pursuing her career in physical therapy in earnest after her own major life transition — the birth of her daughter. She began the long process of applying to physical therapy school, taking pre-requisites while working, raising her daughter and the subsequent birth of twin boys.

“During this time I also watched my own father begin to struggle with mobility issues. It pained me to be a loved one of someone who was struggling and not know how to be of help. It made me think of all the family members I could help while helping my future patients. I also had my first experience with palliative care and hospice during this time. These experiences have had a big impact on me and cemented a desire to be of service to other people throughout my career. I want to help people maintain their dignity and independence as much as possible while navigating health and mobility issues,” she said.

Conway stated that her interest in working with the older adult population and the impact skilled physical therapy can have on quality of life is important.

“I see my role as a health care provider that can help patients meet their mobility goals and maintain as much independence as they want for as long as they want. I cannot imagine more important or more fulfilling work to dedicate my life to,” she said

Honey Lake Hospice is dedicated to providing end-of-life support for patients and their families after a diagnosis of a terminal illness. Our local Honey Lake Hospice is an all volunteer organization which has been providing services to our community since 2004. It is dedicated to offering end-of-life support with a program of flexible services providing compassionate and supportive care in the setting of the patient’s choosing