Hospice NZ

A marvellous institution! If you don't know about it, please have a look at this . I didn't know much about Hospice until a few years ago when a relative was dying and needed their services. I have recently had reason to spend many hours in North Haven in Whangarei, which is an extremely pleasant institution, with extraordinary staff and care, for the dying and their friends and relations.

My cousin is in those 2007 statistics in your link Isla. Hospice were just amazing in their support of her and us.

A friend's mother retired a few years ago, then got quite bored. She decided to help out volunteering for a couple of hours a week at the South Auckland Hospice. She now volunteers five full working days a week, and loves every second of it.

We hear so much of the crap people in this world, when so many others are doing amazing things and helping others - strangers no less - to die surrounded by love and dignity.

I already donate to Hospice NZ. When my first husband was dieing of bowel cancer, it was this institution that helped him, his second wife, her children and my daughter through it with their practical help and "being there". Largely ignored but brilliant people.

Cheers,
Ronnie

I so agree . I have been with 2 people during their dying times over the last few years . I can't speak highly enough of the staff and volunteers . When my hubby and I arrived after a very long stressful drive to a hospice the volunteers came into the room with a lovely tray of hot drinks and fresh scones - even a lovely tray cloth and fresh flowers on the tray . That set the benchmark for the wonderful care we witnessed and were a part of over the next 4 days . They knew when to come into the room and when to stay out . It was the closest thing to being at home as you could want for.

The profile of hospice here in Hamilton has been huge the last two years as they have been fundraising for a new facility. Amazing the support they have had from the community, but not surprising as they are a great service...[]

Another great facility related to cancer treatment is the houses that are for out of towners receiving treatment (usually radiotherapy) at major hospitals . The one we have in Palmy is called Ozanam house and I have had 2 close people to us staying there. I have also stayed in the Auckland one opposite Auckland hospital . Both great services to people at hugely stressful and disruptive times of their lives .Certainly well worth supporting as charities or as volunteer workers.

Agree, Hospice is an absolutely wonderful plae full of such careing, awesome dedicated people. Have had my Dad, an Uncle and MIL die in them and couldn't fault the treatment they all got.

Their advertising looks pretty bad: all our patients die. [}]

Isla;201204 wrote: Their advertising looks pretty bad: all our patients die. [}]

It depends on how you look at what they're "selling" I guess.

We've all gotta go but Hospice eases the journey.
Dedicated volunteers. Wonderful organisation. Many who have benefitted as family of patients stay to help others from their own experience.