New face: Come meet Alberton’s friendliest face at Mall at New Market

As the demand for palliative care continues to rise each day, there is a critical imperative for Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services to extend its reach to neighbouring communities.

As such, members of the 5-star-rated NPO, along with their new mascot, will be at the Mall at Newmarket (Dischem court), ready to hand out goody bags to anyone who joins for a monthly chance to win a R20 000 prize in their Club 2000 draw.

The organisation’s Club 2000 fundraising programme is an initiative where locals, by buying a R50 ticket and as such donating to the Hospice, also stand a chance to receive something in return.

“By participating in the programme, community members can win some wonderful cash prizes monthly, ranging from R20 000 as the first prize to R500 as the last prize. We are grateful for the generous opportunity presented by Mall at Newmarket for allowing us to have a stall on the said date,” said Tersia Burger, CEO and Stepping Stone Hospice founder.

Stepping Stone provides specialist palliative care to both the young and the old experiencing the impact of life-threatening illnesses, such as HIV, cancer, renal failure, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

“We also offer child-centred palliative care at our pediatric unit in Raceview, designed to meet the holistic needs of children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions,” Tersia said.

On March 1, they will be introducing the friendly face of their Hospice while raising awareness of their services. There will also be a donation box for those who wish to kindly donate.

“Our mission is to create a warm and welcoming environment that brings joy and comfort to our young patients. We believe that every child deserves to feel loved, cherished, and supported, regardless of their diagnosis or prognosis,” she said.