On Easter Sunday, the founder and CEO of Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services, Tersia Burger, delivered a heartfelt message of thanks and reflection, honouring the families, supporters and patients who form the heart of the organisation’s work.

In a moving tribute, Burger acknowledged the profound trust placed in the Hospice by families during some of life’s most difficult moments.

She described the decision to place a loved one in hospice care as one of the hardest decisions a family will ever face, expressing deep appreciation to those who chose Stepping Stone to provide end-of-life care.

“You welcomed us into your homes, into your grief, and into your most sacred moments. We walked alongside you not as strangers, but as fellow human beings who understood the weight of what you carried,” she said.

She added that the organisation strives to ensure that every patient experiences dignity, comfort and peace, and expressed hope that their presence helped ease the emotional burden carried by families.

Burger also paid tribute to donors, volunteers and supporters, describing them as the quiet foundation behind the hospice’s work.

She emphasised that every contribution, whether financial, practical or emotional, enables care teams to continue delivering compassionate, patient-centred support.

“Because of you, our care teams can show up fully, with the resources they need to love people well,” she noted, highlighting the unseen but significant impact of community support.

Reflecting on the meaning of Easter, Burger said that the organisation remembers every life that has passed through its care, celebrating the courage and love shown by patients and their families.

She also extended solidarity to those still navigating grief, reaffirming the hospice’s ongoing support.

The message concluded with a note of gratitude from the entire Stepping Stone team, recognising the collective effort that sustains their mission of compassionate care.

“You are the heart of what we do,” Burger said.