Hospice honours departing duo

IT’S all about the people who come into your life.

That was the overwhelming sentiment expressed as the Zululand Hospice Association paid tribute to two of its finest,at a farewell function held at the Richards Bay Country Club on Wednesday evening.

Ann Gates, until recently the Board chairman and a founder member 22 years ago, spoke ‘from the heart, not the brain’ of her time with the organisation.

‘When I came to South Africa 40 years ago for family reasons, God had already paved my path and I was blessed to be entrusted with many tasks, especially with Hospice.

‘Thanks to Empangeni Rotary who made me part of the programme, into my life came wonderful people – doctors, staff, patients, colleagues, volunteers and the Board,’ said Ann.

‘In all this time we have also had super, unfailing support from Reg Anthony and the Zululand Observer, and from the caring community.

‘A special experience began when Lynn Rubly took over seven years ago.

‘She turned Zululand Hospice around and led us into new paths by applying sound business principles.

‘I have utmost respect for the way Lynn submitted proposals and worked in the field.

‘She has been a blessing and leaves big shoes to fill, but our loss will be others’ gain.’

Palliative care

On her part, Lynn enthused about the warm welcome she received when she came to Zululand seven years ago.

‘Zululand has unparalleled dynamism and involvement in caring for the greater community.

‘It’s been seven comfortable, interesting years of growth.

‘I arrived at a time when change was needed and we had to position and market ourselves correctly.

‘Errol and Peg Sclanders taught me all about fund-raising, while Jane Ashburner painstakingly showed me what palliative care is all about – comfort, care, compassion and counselling,’ said Lynn.

‘Crossing the N2 divide between Empangeni and Richards Bay to integrate two houses into one Hospice was possible because of people like Jock and Moira Boake.

‘It has been a privilege to work with the unselfish members of the Board, and with Dr Peter Haselau, who after a full day at a busy hospital still finds time to help Hospice and its patients.

‘In the corporate world it’s all about profits; with an NGO it’s all about people.

‘And thanks to those I have been associated with, including our wonderful American supporters from Lifetime Care Hospice of Rochester, I got far more out than put in.’

Acting Chairman Thami Ndlela praised both ladies for their substantial contribution to Zululand Hospice and presented both with a gift of appreciation.