Bruce’s Dream Takes Center Stage

At St. Croix Hospice, the work we do each day is focused on helping people live and supporting what matters most in the moments that matter most.

For Bruce Mavis, that meant fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Since teaching himself to play guitar at 14, Bruce had always fantasized about playing in a band. But more than 50 years passed without it coming to fruition — until his care team stepped in.

When Lincoln branch team members Allison Cattau and Gina Rakes learned about Bruce’s wish, they got to work. Allison reached out to a neighbor who plays drums in a local cover band, Hardwood Dash, to see if they might welcome one more musician.

And then, Bruce’s dream became reality.

Bruce took the stage with Hardwood Dash, playing familiar, crowd-favorite songs that he loves. The moment was made even more special by the presence of about 25 friends and family members who traveled from Colorado and South Dakota to be there.

Bruce’s family and friends were also joined by 12 St. Croix Hospice team members and their families, wearing custom “Bruce’s Support Squad” T-shirts with the periwinkle esophageal cancer ribbon — a visible sign of support and love for Bruce in a truly special moment.

For Bruce, the experience meant everything. “I like the sound of it so much when it’s more than just me; when there are other instruments and singers,” he shared. “And it does me good to have the audience’s feedback and applause when they can show you that they liked it.”