OHIO — Brittani Rider is a Hospice Admissions Nurse for Southern National Church Residences in Waverly.

They are the largest nonprofit organization in the country that helps supply senior housing. 

Before Rider began working for the organization, her mother-in-law, Connie, was a hospice patient. 

“When my mother-in-law was on hospice for colon cancer, it just opened my eyes. I could see past the stigma associated with hospice and it was something I wanted to be a part of,” said Rider. 

COVID-19 has posed its challenges to the healthcare industry when it comes to limiting visitation and National Church Residences isn't immune. 

Recently, the organization came up with an idea to raise money for the gaps they have in providing care for home patients that are on their service. 

“So say in the middle of the night a family member has an emergency and no one is there to care for their loved one. We step in and help provide someone who is trained to help care for them,” said Rider. 

Columbus resident Carol Turner said her father also received hospice service from the organization. 

She said she wanted to give back so she and her No Cages Harley Davidson Hog Owners Group will take part in a 70-mile ride through southern Ohio. 

All proceeds will benefit the Hospice Caregiver Support Fund.   

“I was all in for it. What they do, what they provide for the families who are trying to say goodbye to their loved ones, is invaluable. And for us to raise money so that we can provide some comfort and a respite for those caring for their loved ones, it's really important,” said Turner. 

Rider echos that sentiment and applauds volunteers and others around Ohio who are coming together to make the fundraiser possible. 

“They have really taken our idea and ran with it. I think that what we envisioned at first, it's so much bigger than we ever thought it would be,” said Rider.  

Registration opens Saturday starting at 10 a.m., for more information click here.