Program Honors Former Trustee

Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island (HHCRI) recently hosted a special breakfast, titled “The Human Dignity Award Breakfast” to honor a man beloved both by Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island and the Jewish community. 

Martin Temkin was a true humanitarian and an advocate for people in need.  He was on HHCRI's Board from the late 80’s until he passed away in Dec. 2010.  From HHCRI’s early beginnings, the Jewish community has been a driving force in strengthening the hospice movement in Rhode Island.  The attendance at last week’s event underscored the Jewish community’s ongoing support for HHCRI and was a true testament to their love and regard for their colleague and friend, Martin Temkin. 

The touching presentations given by members of the Board (L-R: Rabbi Joel Seltzer, Dr. Stanley Aronson, Arthur Robbins and Dr. Fred Schiffman)  provided a historical perspective on how care at the end of life and the Jewish faith are so interrelated. The discussions, both moving and insightful, created a rapt audience to say the least.

To ensure that Martin’s legacy and commitment to Human Dignity live on, Home & Hospice Care of  Rhode Island presented Dr. Fred Schiffman, a member of the HHCRI Board, an oncologist at The Miriam Hospital, and an individual committed to preserving life and dignity, with this year’s Human Dignity Award.  Martin’s wife, Bea made the presentation.