The beginning of the new year marked a significant milestone for Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services, which celebrated 13 years of providing compassionate care and support to the Greater Alberton community and surrounding areas.

From a promise to a lifeline

Stepping Stone Hospice was founded by Tersia Burger in memory of her late daughter, Vicky.

Determined to fulfil a promise to provide holistic palliative care, Tersia opened the Hospice from her home on January 1, 2013.

With just one nursing sister, a quirky wheelchair, a car, and Vicky as the first patient, the Hospice began its journey of hope and care.

Through tireless effort, the facility has grown significantly, now serving nearly 5 000 patients, not including their families.

Over the years, dedicated staff and volunteers have delivered not only medical care but also emotional and spiritual support, touching countless lives in the process.

A holistic approach to care

The Hospice’s interdisciplinary team, which includes specialised doctors, qualified nurses, social workers, and volunteers, works collaboratively to ensure patients receive individualised care around the clock.

Emotional and spiritual support is a cornerstone of the Hospice’s approach, ensuring dignity and comfort during life-limiting illnesses.

“Since our establishment, we have been a beacon of hope for both young and older patients. One of our key achievements has been our holistic approach, ensuring patients receive personalised care and dignity in their final days,” Tersia said.

Recognition and expansion

Stepping Stone Hospice has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the importance of palliative care.
Innovative programmes, including grief counselling for families and companion training for volunteers, have strengthened the support system for patients and their communities.

In 2024, the Hospice was recognised by the Association of Palliative Care Centres (APCC) as the only 5-star accredited Hospice in Gauteng.

That same year, they launched a children’s in-patient unit at 12 Glen Albyn Street, Raceview, providing specialised care for young patients facing life-limiting illnesses.

The Hospice also received the 2025 Global Recognition Award for its pioneering approach to end-of-life care, cementing its status as one of Africa’s elite healthcare facilities.

It remains the only Hospice in Gauteng with dual accreditation from the Council for Health Services Accreditation of Southern Africa (CoHSASA) while maintaining a five-star APCC rating.

“Stepping Stone Hospice represents the very best of humanitarian healthcare innovation, combining clinical excellence with deep community engagement,” said Alex Sterling, spokesperson for the Global Recognition Awards.

A call for support

Despite its achievements, the current facility at 15 Heidelberg Road, New Market Park, has only eight beds and outdated infrastructure, limiting the quality of care that can be offered.

Tersia Burger outlined plans for a new 14-bed adult Hospice facility at 14 Glen Albyn Street, Raceview, with a projected cost of R16.5m.

The expansion will include private patient rooms, a family lounge, a quiet room, nurses’ stations, utility and medicine rooms, and upgraded medical equipment, all designed to enhance patient care and comfort.

“Every donation, no matter how small, is a declaration that our community cares for the most vulnerable. We’re not just building walls and rooms, we’re building hope,” Tersia said.

Supporters and potential sponsors can benefit from brand recognition, media exposure, tax benefits (18A certificate), long-term partnerships, employee engagement, volunteerism, and community awareness.

To assist Stepping Stone Hospice, contact 010 442 5059, Tersia Burger on 083 251 9605, or visit www.steppingstoneHospice.co.za