As pandemic restrictions began to lift, Hospice House could finally be used as it was intended. Whole families could gather together in their loved ones’ rooms, the family area, kitchen, sacred space and children’s play area. As Jodi Strom, Hospice House Volunteer Coordinator, says, “It feels like Hospice House is coming alive.”
A few highlights:
The aromas of home cooking drifted from the kitchen as patients and families prepared favourite foods. Even for patients who could not eat much, the smells of familiar food brought a sense of comfort and home.
Hospice House volunteers and staff made meals and treats for patients and guests, with special requests encouraged.
The children’s play area could finally welcome children to play, read, make art, or simply have quiet time alone. Children from different families formed friendships and used the dry-erase wall to leave messages for each other between visits.
Island Health staff provided excellent medical care to patients, easing challenging symptoms and honouring each person’s needs and priorities.
The gentle and calming Olaf, a trained therapy dog, shared his sweetness with any patients and guests who needed a furry fix.
Hospice volunteers provided emotional and practical support, information and resources to patients, their caregivers and their loved ones. Many volunteers shared their specialized skills such as Therapeutic Touch, Reiki, hairstyling and more.
Holidays were celebrated, from a traditional Christmas turkey dinner and a Boxing Day pancake breakfast to a (small) wedding ceremony, with family attending from across the globe.
The Rotary Garden was even more beautiful last year, as plantings matured, and patients and guests took sanctuary in that peaceful setting.
Thanks to the Cowichan Community, Hospice House exists to support our loved ones, friends and neighbours in living their last days in peace and comfort.
