How earlier palliative care can make you more comfortable
East Rand Palliative Care (ERPC) shares six reasons to rech out for palliative care.
Facing a life-threatening illness can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
East Rand Palliative Care (ERPC), formerly Hospice East Rand, supports patients and their families from the moment of diagnosis, not only during the final stages of illness.
Jonquil Siepman, marketing and media liaison at ERPC, shares six important reasons why reaching out early can make a meaningful difference:
1. Palliative care is not only for end-of-life
Many people mistakenly believe palliative care is only for the final weeks or days of life. In reality, it’s about enhancing quality of life, managing symptoms, and offering emotional and spiritual support from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. The earlier ERPC becomes part of your support team, the more effective the care can be.
2. Comfort and dignity from the start
Pain, discomfort, fatigue and anxiety are common side effects of serious illness and treatment. ERPC’s multi-disciplinary team—consisting of a doctor, nursing sisters, social workers and carers—helps manage symptoms effectively, ensuring comfort and preserving dignity. Early involvement means care plans can be personalised to fit each patient’s needs and lifestyle.
3. Support for families too
Serious illness affects more than just the patient. Families often feel overwhelmed, scared, or unsure of how to cope. ERPC provides practical guidance and emotional support, recognising that caregivers also need care.
4. Palliative care works alongside treatment
Palliative support does not replace medical treatment—it complements it. Patients can still undergo chemotherapy, dialysis, or other curative therapies while receiving palliative care. The aim is to ease the journey physically, emotionally and spiritually.
5. Planning ahead reduces stress later
Early involvement allows time for advance care planning, emotional preparation, and important conversations. This reduces panic and confusion, creating space for peace of mind.
6. Accessible, compassionate care
As a non-profit organisation, ERPC’s mission is to make quality palliative care available to everyone in need. Its team provides home-based care, counselling, and support in a familiar setting, without the pressure of hospitals.
“We’re here when you need us—and even before you think you need us,” Siepman reaffirms.
Whether you or a loved one has just been diagnosed, or you’ve been managing a life-threatening illness for some time, reaching out to East Rand Palliative Care early can make the journey more manageable and meaningful.
Contact ERPC: 011 422 1531 | www.erpc.org.za
