Dove Hospice

 

Our Speaker a couple of weeks ago was Kathryn Jackson, Senior Palliative Care Clinical Nurse from the Eastern Bays [“Dove”] Hospice Trust. Kathryn was introduced by the Chair of the Trust, Peter Ross.                                                                                                        

Established in 1992, the Trust has 60 staff and has just opened its 8^th retail shop. With a $6m annual turnover, Dove [unlike other hospices] receives no government funding.

Dove aims to support and enhance wellness for those affected by life-threatening illness. Kathryn enlarged on the holistic wellness support provided: mental and physical wellbeing is paramount. Patients are reassured to find that they are not alone on their journey.   In support of people who have a terminal diagnosis, Dove ‘bridges the gap’ between diagnosis and end of life.   Respite care is also provided.

Kathryn spoke of the importance of collaboration with other hospices and agencies [such as the Cancer Society] and the adjacent St Andrews Village. A thoughtful and moving presentation.