Stepping Stone Hospice and Care Services in Newmarket Park, Alberton, achieved the almost impossible during lockdown.
In a matter of three weeks, and with the help of the community, Stepping Stone Hospice increased its palliative care capacity from an eight bed in-patient unit to 13 beds.
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 unit housing five extra beds,” explained 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,” said 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, and 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 five 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 may 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
“I can also be contacted for queries on how to help.”
Phone her on 083 251 9605 or 010 442 5059.”
