Hospice marks 10 years

Castanet file photo

Kelowna's Hospice House has provided heart-felt care for 10 years.

The hospice on Ethel Street provides end of life care and support for families, like those of Jean-Margaret Seabrook.

“My mom spent her final days at Central Okanagan Hospice House. We cannot say enough good things about the care she and our entire family received during this difficult time, and it is a memory we will hold with us forever,” says Peggy Collie. “She received the best of care, and everybody was friendly and comforting. It is heartwarming to know she felt as comfortable as possible and so did our family – all the way down to my mom’s great-grandchildren when they were visiting.” 

The 24-bed facility's heart and soul is the people who work there. 

“Staff, physicians and volunteers ... provide heart-felt care and comfort to individuals in the last days of their lives,” says Interior Health board chair Doug Cochrane. “Congratulations to everyone involved in the Hospice House as it marks its 10-year anniversary.” 

The facility was built after the KGH Foundation led an ambitious campaign raising $10 million with support from the Central Okanagan Hospice Association, BC Cancer Foundation, Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District and Interior Health. In addition, several contractors involved in the project donated their time.  

“We are constantly inspired by the amazing work at Central Okanagan Hospice House. We are honoured to receive gifts from grateful families and know that every single gift tells a story,” says Doug Rankmore, KGH Foundation CEO.

Hospice palliative care focuses on improving quality of life and alleviating suffering, and is most often provided in people’s homes as well as in free-standing hospice houses, long-term care facilities, and hospitals.