A group of volunteers in Stettler has helped make life a little more comfortable for those nearing the end of their lives.
Thanks to the group and a partnership with Alberta Health Services and Points West Living, those nearing the end of their lives can die comfortably with friends and family close thanks to a hospice suite at the Points West Living facility.
The suite is offered free of charge to those who are entering the final stages of terminal illness.
According to Chad Dalsin, a board member of the hospice, those in the suite are cared for by home care nurses, Points West and doctors from the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre, as needed.
“If patients are interested in hospice care, let your physicians know as soon as possible,” said Dalsin, in a recent interview.
“It takes a few days for the paperwork to go through.”
Dalsin says that in addition to the suite, the Stettler Hospice Society now also offers home respite care for families caring for ill loved ones who need a break.
The hospice suite and home respite care are funded through donations and intensive fundraising efforts on the part of the volunteers.
Fundraising initiatives done in the past include hosting Bingo, running a variety showcase, and establishing an annual Hike for Hospice.
A date for the 2024 hike has been set for May 5 in West Stettler Park.
Participants will have the option of taking part in a one-, three-, or five-kilometre hike.
As part of the hike, there will be a team challenge for both business and non-business teams, a best-dressed dog award, a free barbecue, entertainment, and much more.
The Stettler Hospice has been operating in the community since 2018.
For more information, or to register for the hike, check out stettlerhospice.org.
