The threat of the Covid-19 virus on patients who are already immune-compromised, has led to doctors needing to move these patients to palliative care facilities. Stepping Stone Hospice was asked to step in and help accommodate these patients.

“We simply put our heads together and our team constructed an emergency plan which entailed the conversion of the building next to our existing In-Patient Unit. We recently took over the lease of the building, previously occupied by CANSA, with the intent to house administrative staff. With the Lockdown being imposed, the move of staff was put on hold. However, as an interim plan, the building was turned into a second In-Patient Unit housing 5 extra beds,” explains hospice CEO, Tersia Burger.

“We will continue to provide the highest quality palliative care our patients and their families deserve, despite our cash flow now under enormous strain. All fundraising events came to a grinding halt, however, we will continue to explore other ways to raise the necessary funds,” says Tersia.

In the meantime, the team at Stepping Stone Hospice wishes to thank each and every person who contributed to the new unit: the Muller-couple who bought all the linen needed, Leopold Dussing from Ascot Furniture and Bedding for sponsoring pillows and giving a huge discount on the chairs bought by the Lindeque-couple, Anette and Stephan Mogridge for the décor, Derek Jerling for the purchasing of the orange cones. “Thank you to the many individuals who made a financial contribution which we will now offset against the cost of the 5 hospital beds we had to buy and the unbudgeted protective clothing for our staff, to the individuals who donated curtains, more linen and extra chairs, we thank you.”

Anyone wishing to make a financial donation can use the following banking details: Stepping Stone Hospice, ABSA, Branch code 632005, Account Number 4086095643. Ref: (Your name)/Lockdown. Please note that Stepping Stone Hospice can issue an 18A tax certificate for donations made. Please mail proof of payment to marietjie@steppingstonehospice.co.za.

“Folks can also contact me directly if they have any further queries on where and how they can help: 083 251 9605 or 010 442 5059,” says Tersia.

Caption:
Granny Breytenbach being welcomed into the new unit by Lizzie Khoza (auxilliary nurse), hospice CEO, Tersia Burger, Sister Margi Bollman, head of Clinical Care and student caregiver, Thandi Tshabalala.