THE Highway Hospice has concluded its latest palliative care training course, with 19 participants completing the week-long programme aimed at equipping caregivers with practical and emotional skills to support individuals with terminal illnesses.

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The training, held at the organisation’s Education Centre in Durban, is part of the hospice’s broader effort to improve community-based palliative care. Participants included both professional caregivers and individuals looking after family members at home.

According to Highway Hospice, the course focused on home-based care for patients living with cancer, HIV, and other life-limiting conditions. It was facilitated by experienced professionals, including nurses Mandisa Sonqishe, Kash Raghubar, Ann Hawkins, and social worker Nokubonga Ndlovu.
“While the sessions covered sensitive and emotionally demanding topics, participants described the environment as supportive. A few attendees noted that informal moments — such as spontaneous singing by one participant — helped ease the emotional weight of the discussions and fostered a sense of solidarity among the group,” said Lisette Abell of the Highway Hospice.

The organisation offers similar training regularly, alongside its core services of medical, psychological, and emotional support for patients across Durban and surrounding areas. It also operates support groups and satellite clinics to improve access to palliative care.

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Training administrator Sushie Pillay managed logistical arrangements for the course, including preparation of materials and venue setup.
Highway Hospice has been active in KZN for over 30 years, providing palliative support to patients and families navigating end-of-life care. The organisation continues to rely on donor support to maintain and expand its services.

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