The Salvation Army Rotary Hospice House in Richmond, B.C. recently held its first summer garden party. “The purpose was to give the community of Richmond an opportunity to visit the facility and celebrate the kind of service The Salvation Army offers,” says Major Margaret Evans, executive director. More than 150 people attended the event and experienced the warm and caring atmosphere of the hospice.
Many years ago, individuals in the community of Richmond initiated the idea of a community-based hospice, an option to hospital and home for individuals and their families at the end of life. A partnership was established between the Rotary Club of Richmond and The Salvation Army, and with the support of Vancouver Coastal Health, The Salvation Army’s Rotary Hospice House opened its doors in September 2005. It was in operation by February 2006 and since then it has served 256 residents and families from Richmond and Vancouver.
Located in a residential neighbourhood, the Hospice House provides quality, end of life care. Ten private, fully furnished resident rooms open to their own patio with a view of a beautifully landscaped garden, pond and walking path. Each bedroom has a private washroom. In addition, wheelchair accessible bathing facilities and a therapeutic tub are available. There are also a number of common areas – a quiet area, lounge and chapel – where residents can spend time with their families and friends.
Hospice is a sanctuary of hope at the end of life. A team of professionals walk beside each resident, whose life expectancy is less than three months, to facilitate a gentle closure to life through physical, emotional and spiritual care. They ensure that the terminally ill resident dies with dignity, in peace and comfort, supported by family and friends.
Major Margaret Evans concludes: “We have been privileged to serve many people from all walks of life and are committed to respecting their values and beliefs. Family members, friends and others in the resident’s support network are encouraged to visit and participate in the resident’s care in whatever ways are comfortable for each person concerned.”