HOSPICE HAPPENINGS - August, 2017

 
  In This Issue:
Partnership for GoodGood
"The field of hospice palliative care in Canada is full of amazing people, inspiring stories and incredible potential - we need to support this." 
Nancy Lefebre, the Saint Elizabeth Foundation
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In  the spirit of good partnership, the Saint Elizabeth Foundation is working to strengthen end-of-life care by supporting hospices across the country, including Edmonton, where it is providing generous funding towards growing the Pilgrims Hospice Compassionate Companions program.

At the heart of this program are fully trained and exceptionally dedicated volunteers, who give their time and care to improve the quality of life for individuals facing the end of life. Every  Compassionate Companion is carefully matched with a client, allowing each to feel comfortable with the other.

Having a Compassionate Companion makes a huge difference, including to the family or caregivers:
"We can't always be there and you have become a friend she loves and looks forward to seeing every week. Because you are not family, Mom shares her thoughts and feelings with you and you are a breath of fresh air for her. You get her to do things she won't do for us and she lights up when she talks about your visits."

The funding will assist those needing respite and support, as well as those unable to pay for companioning on their own. It also allows us to help many more families in the community, by increasing the number of times a year we can offer specialized hospice training to volunteers.

Pilgrims Hospice is so grateful for the generosity of the Saint Elizabeth Foundation and this partnership for good'. For our clients, it means they can focus on what's important to them - such as emotional health and caring for family - and makes a difficult time a little more bearable.
What is Teen Retreat 2017? Retreat
Teen Retreat 2017 is a 2-day extravaganza that explores what it's like to be a grieving teenager. Teens (ages 13-18) will get a chance to connect with others who are grieving as well as participate in games, crafts, music, and more!
Friday, August 25, 10-4pm
&  Saturday, August 26, 10-4pm
To register, or for more information, call Cheryl Salter-Roberts at 780-413-9801 or email [email protected] 
Making the days special for our Day Program  clients takes the help of special volunteers. Judith and her lovely labradoodle Farley, bring joy to so many.
Farley's excitement to socialize is palpable. He's loved by all of the clients and has a way of making everyone a dog lover. A warm cuddle on a lap, or a nice crunchy carrot, is the icing on the cake for Farley.
 
We've so enjoyed getting to know Judith and Farley over the past three years, and look forward to their presence each week. Thank you both for brightening up our Wednesdays!
Contact Us contact
For more information about any of our services, for a loved one or for yourself, fill out our Service Request Form here, or call 780-413-9801. 
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Ray of Sunshine Sunshine
Some people make the world a better place, just by being in it. Kerri and Tony Washington are such people and it's with sadness that we say goodbye to them both. Tony's recent release from the Edmonton Eskimos, and subsequent contract with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, means they'll start a new life together in Hamilton this fall.
Kerri has been a ray of sunshine at Pilgrims for the past three years. As the Program Coordinator for the Adult Respite Day Program, what made Kerri so special was her warm smile, genuine laugh, and the reassurance she gave to clients that someone would always be there to lend a hand, or be an ear to listen.

Kerri is truly one of a kind and we'll miss her presence and friendship. We're happy she's able to say: "It's been my greatest joy being part of the team here at Pilgrims.... My time here will forever stay in my heart."

Over the years, Kerri and Tony gave so much to the Hospice on their own time. They built a beautiful memorial garden for all to enjoy; were big supporters of the Hike for Hospice; and Tony was able to grace the Hospice with the Grey Cup last year!

 "Pilgrims Hospice to me means family, love, friendship - it's like home. You're welcomed and embraced the minute you walk in." - Tony Washington

Kerri and Tony, you'll always be part of the Pilgrims family. We wish you all the best in your new adventure!


This Sunflower Luncheon, we invite you to take part in Building a Community of Compassion.Sunflower

Your presence at the event reflects your care for  quality of life  at the end of life. For some, like Joanna Christie,  "It's become a tradition I look forward to every year."  

Join us for a champagne reception, delicious food, and a meaningful luncheon program with Host Seanna Collins. 

Monica Robson, Executive Director, plus special guests, will share powerful stories of hospice care and grief support provided by Pilgrims Hospice, in places you may not expect....

Friday, September 22
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Champagne Reception: 11:30am
Lunch & Speakers: Noon-1:15pm

Wanting to get involved? 
Do you love being involved in Special Events? Have a talent for organizing or an eye for detail? Are you a party planner extraordinaire?  Pilgrims Hospice needs your help!
We are currently seeking volunteers to assist with the planning and delivery of our Sunflower Luncheon, Gala (Walk In My Shoes), and the Hike for Hospice. If you are interested in being part of a Special Event Committee, or helping out in other ways, please contact Debby Harink, Manager, Volunteer Services at [email protected]  or call 780-413-9801 ext. 114

We look forward to working together!
Our Funding
In 2016, we received 13.6% of our funding from the government.
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Because of you...  we are able to offer care that focuses on  quality  of life at the end of life.
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