Receiving a diagnosis of a life-threatening illness can be overwhelming, not only for the individual but for their entire family.

Whether the path leads to remission or the illness proves life-limiting, the emotional toll is significant. Feelings of shock, denial, anger and deep sadness are natural and can arise at any stage, from diagnosis through treatment and even after recovery.

Families, too, are affected as they as they navigate uncertainty, changing roles, and the challenges of caring for a loved one. During these times, emotional and spiritual support become just as important as managing physical symptoms.

This is where East Rand Palliative Care (ERPC) steps in. Previously known as Hospice East Rand, the organisation changed its name to better reflect its ongoing mission: supporting people from the moment of diagnosis, not only at the end of life.

Jonquil Siepman, marketing and media liaison for ERPC, explains that the organisation works alongside a patient’s doctor or specialist during treatment.

“Palliative care is not about giving up; it’s about improving quality of life by addressing pain, discomfort, emotional distress and spiritual concerns. TThese aspects of care may not be visible, but they are deeply felt,” she says.

At ERPC, the team includes a doctor, nursing sisters, care workers and social workers who offer holistic support to both patients and their families.

Whether it is pain management, symptom control, counselling, grief support or simply being there to listen, the ERPC team walks alongside patients throughout their journey.

“Our name may be new, but our mission remains the same: to ensure that no one faces a serious illness alone,” Siepman adds.

For more information or to reach out for support, contact East Rand Palliative Care on 011 422 1531, visit www.erpc.org.za or follow their new Facebook page at Facebook.com/eastrandpalliativecare.