HOSPICE HAPPENINGS - February 2017

 
   In This Issue:  
   The Gift of Time       Join our Gala!

Really, it's all LoveLove

Lately, everywhere we look there 

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are cut-out hearts & Valentine's displays made by those attending the Day Program. Much of the loving kindness and compassionate care our staff and exceptional volunteers give, however, will only be seen by the individuals involved.
Sometimes we get to know by the thanks a Compassionate Companion volunteer receives: "We can't always be there and you have become a friend she loves and looks forward to seeing every week." - Mary
Or perhaps a volunteer, like Jane, can put into words the special relationship that occurs:
"We see their smiles, listen to their stories, cry with them, laugh with them. Just BE with them and honour the human connection - the shared humanity - right to the end, because they matter ."
The love in the Day Program is palpable - in the laughter and care, the singing and shared stories. The friendship and support that grows between attendees, really says it all.
The Gift of Time time
Anita joined the Pilgrims family back in September, 2011, focusing her volunteer hours in the Compassionate Companions Program. She has companioned several clients since she started and has become an invaluable member of the team.
Anita is acknowledged as our Volunteer of the Month, for her commitment to her clients and continued support for Pilgrims. She can always be relied on to companion an extra client at a moment's notice. On a few occasions, she has provided some fairly urgent respite support, sitting at the bedside during the final days of life.
"Volunteering for Pilgrims Hospice as a Compassionate Companion has given me insight and taught me patience. It's shown me that people in palliative care still need to feel human and not just dismissed. I know that spending a few hours playing crib or listening to their stories, gives my clients the personal communication they like and need. It lets them know they are still important & valued."
Volunteers like Anita give the precious gift of time, at the most needed time. Thank you Anita for your care, your dependability and your gentle nature. You are a treasure to many .
Call for Volunteerscall

Volunteer help is requested on the day of the Walk in My Shoes Gala, April 7th
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Join our Hike
Committee & help us grow a great national
event locally
To volunteer for any event contact Shelaine at
[email protected]
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 us at 780-413-9801. 
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Let's stop being  

Edmonton's Best 
Kept Secret!

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Sterling Workdeb
It's time to say "goodbye and good luck" to Executive Director Deb Birkett, as she officially steps down from the role she's held for the past 6 years.
Deb has worked for Pilgrims since its beginnings, starting as a volunteer 21 years ago. She came back after receiving a degree in social work and has contributed to Pilgrims in a number of roles. She's been a staunch advocate for the hospice and all it stands for, working passionately to raise the profile in the community, form new alliances, and find new opportunities to carry out its Mission.
We will remember Deb as the kind and compassionate face of Pilgrims Hospice, modelling excellence in end-of-life care. Her gentle and thoughtful presence made everyone feel welcome, helping board members, staff and volunteers feel comfortable and supported in their roles.
As a supervisor, Deb guided staff with respect and kindness, nurturing their creativity. As one staff member says: "I always knew she would have my back in any situation I found myself in".
Deb will return to private practice as a Registered Social Worker, focusing on supporting individuals, families, and health care professionals with end of life care.  We join PHS co-founder, Dr. Helen Hays, in saying:
" Deb has done sterling work as executive director of Pilgrims, with her people skills, as well as her organisational skills, and we will miss her so much. All the very best in the future. With Love and a big Thank-you."
wimsHonorary Chair Richard Wong
Invites you to attend the 
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ANNUAL GALA
DINNER & AUCTION
In support of Pilgrims Hospice Society

Friday, April 7, 2017
Chateau Lacombe Hotel

Click here for more details
and to order tickets
Employment Opportunity
Pilgrims Hospice Society is receiving applications for the position of Executive Director. Click here for more information. Thank you. 
PHS Board Opportunities
Pilgrims Hospice Board of Directors is actively seeking an individual with accounting experience, preferably with an interest in end of life care, to join the Board as Treasurer.
 
The Board is also looking for a volunteer for the role of Recording Secretary at Board meetings (this is not a Board position).
 
For more information on either posting, please email Marion at [email protected]
Our Funding
In 2016 we received 18.15% of our funding from the government.
Your Donations are vital.
 
 
Thank you for generously supporting our programs and services with your attendance at our Special Events and your Donations to Pilgrims Hospice.
 
Your generosity ensures 
COMPASSION FOR THE JOURNEY & SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES   
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