Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Patrick Mashele, a seasoned palliative and clinical care doctor, who will commence his clinical duties on April 1.

This move is part of the hospice’s commitment to improving the quality of life for patients in Alberton and surrounding areas.

Mashele, 69, brings a wealth of experience to the 5-star APCC-rated hospice, having worked in various healthcare settings. He qualified as a doctor in 1985 and, two years later, joined a private practice, later opening his own practice in Katlehong, which was an after-hours surgery. During this time, he was also working at the then Natalspruit Hospital.

In 2004, the seasoned doctor joined HospiceWits and was involved in the establishment of the HospiceWits Diepkloof. While working there, he would often travel abroad [to the United States of America] because HospiceWits had received international funding.

As he continued to grow in this field, in 2015, he joined Sebokeng Hospital, where he was largely involved in the management of the Road Accident Fund and HIV unit. He soon after became a clinical manager in the surgical unit. Unfortunately, due to his mature age, he had to retire.

His passion for palliative care is evident in his motto: “Always working for productivity, not for money.”

The appointment of Dr Mashele is a response to the growing need for specialized palliative care in the region. He will be based at Stepping Stone Hospice’s in-patient units in New Market and Raceview, providing clinical care to out-patients and ensuring that patients receive the highest level of care. Dr Mashele will also do home visits when required.

Dr Mashele is determined to make a positive impact at Stepping Stone.

“I intend to offer my services in all areas towards bringing growth to this place. Not only do I intend to offer my specialty to those needing dignified care, but my major goal is to see this place progress,” he said.

When asked about palliative care, Dr Mashele emphasized the importance of understanding the concept.

“Palliative care is not about giving up; it’s about living with dignity. It’s about wrapping those who are suffering in a blanket of love, care, and support, and walking with them on their journey, no matter how difficult it may be. I believe that every person deserves to live their final days with comfort,” Mashele said.

Tersia Burger, founder and CEO of Stepping Stone Hospice, welcomed Mashele and expressed her confidence in his abilities.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr Mashele to the Stepping Stone family. With his wealth of experience and compassion, we are confident that he will be able to reach out to patients in our community who are in dire need of care. We look forward to seeing the positive impact that our new doctor will have on the lives of our patients and their loved ones. We want to improve our service and be able to reach more people who don’t have the financial muscles to pay for such a service,” she said.

Dr Mashele attends the weekly Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) meeting under the leadership of Dr Sylvia Rodrigues. This consists of a group of professionals from various disciplines, such as physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, and volunteers, who work together to provide holistic care to patients and their families.