Hospice opens in Alberton
Stepping Stone Hospice and Care Service officially opened its doors last night.
NEW MARKET – A long awaited hospice, where people can spend their last hours in dignity and being cared for with love, opened its doors last night on the grounds of Amcare.
Stepping Stone Hospice and Care Service, an independent community driven service, was founded on January 1 by Tersia Burger and Sister Siza Nkosi.
Initially they operated from Tersia’s home in Alberton but in April, they found a new home on the premises of Amcare.
Their services include a day care for terminally ill patients. Here patients can focus on interesting social activities rather than dying. The in-patient unit provides two dignity rooms with 24 hour visiting. A multi-faith chapel, situated close to the in-patients unit entrance is open to all those who may need space for private prayers or spiritual reflection.
All patients will be accepted, irrespective of their social, cultural, spiritual, financial or religious points of view or standing. People admitted as in-patients will be looked after by Palliative Care Specialists who will be supported by a team of health professionals, nurses, a physiotherapists, psychologist an a social worker. Trained volunteers will also be in attendance for the patients who need their support.
Stepping Stones is going to need the support of the community as it receives no government funding. They are totally reliant on the generosity of the community, public sector, fundraising, bequests and donations towards patient accounts and sale of secondhand goods and clothes.
There are various options through which business and private individuals can become involved. Should you wish to obtain more information, kindly phone 011 869 5856, e-mail info@steppingstonehospice.co.za or visit their website www.steppingstonehospice.co.za
