DEAR Editor,-
Over the past 31 years, team South Coast Hospice has indeed known what it is like to sacrifice and to pray for the funding it receives to provide care for people who are terminally ill. We know that prayers are answered.
This year proved to be no different. In fact if anything, this hospice has had to rely on the generosity of the South Coast community, more than ever before, as we face a future of reduced funding from outside sources.
Guided by our board, we have cut back across all departments in an effort to continue palliative care services to patients and their families. What is very critical to the South Coast community is the continuation of our foundation, namely home based care, together with the proposed reopening of Kingfisher House inpatient unit, as it offers respite and end of life care to a community that contributes so generously.
We take this time at the end of the year to remember all those who are grieving and salute their perseverance. We also take this opportunity to thank the South Coast Herald and its team for constantly keeping us in the public eye. To our wonderful South Coast community, your generous giving, together with your prayers, has made a difference in a patient’s life.
To Dr André Nell and Dr Hilton Horsley, who have supported South Coast Hospice with dedication and professionalism since its inception, you are all a true example.
For, after all: “We will comfort you and those you love, not always with words, often with a touch or a glance. We will bring you hope, not for tomorrow, but for this day. We will not leave you; We will watch with you; We will be there.”(Extract Dr Dorothy Ley 1994)
DI VAN DYK AND THE SC TEAM
South Coast Hospice
