New blood to drive Hospice vision
Despite losing the services of four stalwart members, Zululand Hospice is committed to maintaining its excellent service through the acquisition of new talent
PHOTO: Dave Savides
THE loss of three founder members, who collectively have over 60 years of experience, plus the imminent departure of the General Manager, will not deter Zululand Hospice from fulfilling its mandate.
Already advertisements are out to attract a new GM to replace Lynn Rubly, while a drive is on to recruit additional volunteers.
‘At the Zululand Hospice Association’s 21st birthday celebrations last year, then chairperson, Ann Gates referred to the Hospice’s dream of ‘Palliative Care For All’, which remains our goal, and we are well on track,’ said Rubly.
‘However, Ann stated that to achieve our vision, there would be changes in the year to come.
‘She highlighted that the strength of the organisation is directly linked to its leadership and governance and she called on the community to come forward with their skills, time and enthusiasm – new blood to take the organisation on its journey for the next 21 years.
‘The founding members have ‘done their bit’, and I think Ann, Peg Sclanders and Jo James are entitled to retire with honours.
‘However, we have new members on the Board, people with strong business, financial and marketing skills,’ said Rubly.
‘Dr Peter Haselau continues to give us his personal time to oversee our medical programme and Sr Girlie Sibisi, who for many years provided our patients with Palliative Care as a Board member, actively remains involved with the programme.
‘Moira Boake has put her educating skills to good use and conducts many Hospice presentations to the community – adults and children.’
According to Rubly, Hospice is well positioned to go forward and achieve its goals and objectives, ‘as challenging as they may be’.
‘There are some exciting projects in the offing, both in terms of patient care, marketing and fund-raising.’
Zululand Hospice employs seven nurses who are assisted by palliative home-based carers and family services coordinators.
‘The Board will rise to the challenge. The community, patients and their families can rely on their Hospice houses in Richards Bay and Empangeni to care for patients with cancer, TB and HIV,’ said acting chairperson, Thami Ndlela.
