HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Living life to the fullest in the ending stages of terminal illness -- that's what Hospice care is all about.

It's one of the many things being celebrating in November during National Hospice Month. Hospice's services go way beyond caring for loved ones in their own homes.

Take Viola Thompson and Ilona Bulen, for instance, who have forged a special friendship. Bulen volunteers with Hospice of Huntington and visits Thompson weekly at the Mariner Skilled Nursing Facility.

"With hospice patients, we tend to make friends instantly," Bulen said. "You bond right away. They are so grateful and trusting when you come in to interact with them."

Two weeks ago, Bulen planned a party for Thompson's 55th birthday.

"I thought if the lady can't go to the spa, we'll bring the spa to the lady," Bulen said. "She was pampered from head to toe."

Thompson said that meant a lot to her.

"It perked me up and helped my body," she said. "It really helped me and made me better. I had a brighter outlook and can see much better."

Hospice is a service that goes beyond caring for patients in their homes. Patient care teams also go to skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes and other assisted-living facilities.

Woody Mills, a nursing home nurse manager, said he noticed a dramatic difference in Thompson after Hospice volunteers began interacting with her.

"Once we began working with Hospice and Viola, she wasn't nearly as depressed," Mills said. "When the Hospice staff came in, she was much perkier throughout the day and week. It's an enormous benefit."

Add in Thompson's therapy dog, Chinook, and Thompson's once quickly deteriorating condition has stabilized.

"I really enjoy him," she said. "It makes me happy. I love pets. I used to have them, and it makes them feel more alive."

According to Hospice staff, you don't have to wait until your loved one is in their final weeks of their life-threatening illness to apply for services. In fact, the more time you allow, the bigger an impact they can make helping patients live life to the fullest.