Love has a way of coming full circle.
Kay and Frank Stevens shared a love story that spanned 63 years of marriage filled with travel, long hikes side by side, laughter, and a deep devotion to family. Together, they raised two sons and delighted in six grandchildren, building a life grounded in partnership, curiosity, and care for one another.
For more than 20 years, Kay Stevens showed her love for this community through service. After retiring, she volunteered faithfully with VNA Health—giving her time, her compassion, and her heart to neighbors who needed care, comfort, and dignity during life’s most vulnerable moments.
Kay believed deeply in VNA Health’s mission. She believed in showing up. And she believed that no one should ever face illness, aging, or the end of life alone. Years later, when Kay herself needed care, that love came back to her.
Kay first turned to VNA Health for Home Health Care while recovering from knee surgery. Through VNA Health’s Loan Closet, she received the durable medical equipment she needed to remain safe and comfortable at home. As time passed and Kay began showing signs of dementia, her husband Frank reached out again—unsure of what lay ahead—but certain of one thing: VNA Health would be there for Kay when she and her family needed it most.
“VNA Health’s service to us was basically a Godsend in our time of need. Without VNA, I don’t know what we would have done.” FRANK
VNA Health nurses came into their home to assess Kay’s needs and help coordinate physical therapy, followed by speech therapy—always with compassion, patience, and respect for the whole family. Frank and their sons weren’t just receiving medical support; they were being guided, reassured, and cared for during an overwhelming time.
As Kay’s dementia progressed, VNA Health’s Hospice-at-Home team worked closely with the family to create a plan centered on comfort, dignity, and peace. Just three weeks after her final evaluation, Kay was welcomed into Serenity House, VNA Health’s inpatient hospice facility. She passed peacefully—surrounded by her family, kindness, calm, and love.
Serenity House is more than a place. It is a feeling of peace. A steady presence in the hardest moments. A home where patients are treated with dignity—and families are held with care so they can share their love with each other.
“They provided professional service and advice,” Frank shared. “They helped me and my sons prepare for the inevitable. Kay was in a carefree, safe environment without suffering. I would hope that others take advantage of VNA services for their family.”
For Kay, love truly came full circle. The organization she devoted decades of her life to was there when she—and her family—needed VNA Health’s trusted care most.
For 118 years, VNA Health has been here for Santa Barbara—generation after generation—providing care in moments of recovery, moments of transition, and moments of goodbye. Serenity House stands as a promise to this community: that compassion will always be available, regardless of ability to pay.
This Valentine’s season, we are reminded that love often shows up quietly—through a gentle touch, a listening ear, and the comfort of knowing you are not alone. When you give today, you ensure that this love continues.
You ensure that Serenity House and VNA Health will be here for your neighbors, your friends, and the people you love—when they need comfort, support, and peace most.
Please make your gift today. Give with love and help ensure that Serenity House remains a place where care comes full circle—now and for generations to come. You may safely donate online by clicking here or scanning the QRC.
Your donation makes a difference!
