Editor:
Re: Hospice has never been Christian based (letters, Sept. 10)
As a long term volunteer with Delta Hospice Society (DHS), I agree with Rev. Jim Short, DHS was never a Christian organization.
Since MAID was made legal in Canada, our provincial government has asked all non-faith based hospices to allow individuals who are facing the end of life the opportunity of choice. Contrary to what the existing board of directors of Delta Hospice Society want, we are not a faith-based hospice and the community it serves has declared their desire to be given this choice. They are the ones who donated funds along with the government to build the hospice, and through memberships and generous donations have sustained it since 1991.
I have been involved with DHS for more than 10 years, in many different volunteer roles: reception, therapeutic touch, vigils, helping the nursing staff and assisting counsellors with various programs.
In addition, Delta Hospice offers relaxation circles, restorative yoga, music therapy and counselling for adults and children.
It is these support services that the Take Back Delta Hospice (TBDH) group is fighting for.
Although Fraser Health will take control of the hospice services at the Irene Thomas Hospice in February 2021, the Supportive Care Centre, where the support programs and counselling are held, will not be funded. These services are greatly appreciated by the families, those who are bereaved, and those facing life altering health challenges. All of this has been offered free of charge to our residents and their families. TBDH wants to ensure our community continues to have access to these specialized programs.
Take Back Delta Hospice is extremely grateful for the wonderful community support, and we urge you to become a DHS member in order to continue serving all Deltans.
Visit our website at www.takebackdeltahospice.ca. Your voice and future vote will make a difference.
Decima Mitchell
