Hospice East Rand honours 37 years of care at AGM

Hospice East Rand held its 37th AGM on October 21 at Benoni, marking another year of significant milestones and service to the community.

The meeting showcased both financial growth and the commitment of the Hospice’s staff and volunteers to providing care for patients facing life-threatening illnesses.

Financial highlights
It was revealed in the financial report that income and donations increased by 5%, excluding profit from the disposal of land and buildings. Interest income saw a remarkable 53.8% rise, while strict cost management led to only a 4% increase in expenses.

Chairperson of the organisation Con Roux expressed his gratitude to all involved in making this possible.

“We live in a strange, dark world, don’t we?” Roux remarked, referencing global uncertainties. “But we can bring joy, light and hope into the lives of our patients and their families.

“Who would have thought that warnings of a Third World War would ring out in 2024? What is our response? I believe it is to ‘Speak life over everything’ (Proverbs 18:21).”

Roux emphasised the importance of action over words, lauding the Hospice team for their dedication.

“Our staff, volunteers and executive members bring life to those whose lives are turned upside down by a diagnosis. You offer the priceless gift of courage, lighting up lives and giving hope for a better tomorrow.”

Care and compassion at the forefront
Throughout the meeting, the focus remained on the exceptional care that Hospice provides. Roux likened Hospice staff to heroes, similar to those who intervened during a snowstorm that left over 1800 motorists stranded in September.

“Our frontline staff are indeed angels, sacrificing personally to bring light to those in need,” he said.

Patient care manager Sindisiwe Mdlalose spoke passionately about Hospice’s Home-Based Care programme, which has been in place for seven years.

Mdlalose shared how Hospice’s decision to close its in-patient unit was driven by patient preferences for receiving care in the comfort of their homes.

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“Our vision is the provision of holistic, high-quality, non-discriminatory care to patients and their families, regardless of their financial means,” she said.

Mdlalose praised her team, who have become a beloved figure among patients and their families.

“Their compassionate approach has earned glowing reviews from the people they care for,” said Mdlalose.

“At the end of the day, our team knows there is no end to caring. The quality of care we provide leaves a lasting impact on our patients and their families. That is what truly matters.”

Challenges and innovations
Despite the challenges of the past year, including staffing changes due to death, injury, retirement, and resignation, Hospice East Rand continues to deliver top-quality care.

Roux highlighted the successful integration of new technologies, including the adoption of the Good X digital system, which has streamlined patient information management and reduced reliance on paper files. The partnership with Telkom to implement this system was praised, with a total investment of R237 000 over five years.

A notable moment of the year was the graduation of the first cohort of home-based personal care workers in July 2024. This initiative, made possible by funding from the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) not only enhances palliative care but also contributes to job creation in the community.

Roux concluded his report by expressing his deepest appreciation to the entire staff, volunteers, and executive members.

“Your commitment is a beacon of hope for all those we serve. The year ahead holds much promise, and I look forward to what we can achieve together.”

A bright future ahead
Looking forward, Hospice East Rand is gearing up for an exciting year of transformation. The long-awaited name change to ‘East Rand Palliative Care’ is expected to take effect soon, symbolising a fresh chapter in the organisation’s journey.

The executive team has committed to identifying new outreach opportunities and adapting services to meet the needs of a changing healthcare landscape.