Witnessing the realization of a collective dream, we all share in the joy of the birth of our new Hospice House. With the ambiance of a home, palliative patients and their families will share in the experience of a warm and comforting environment. This beautiful structure is a tribute to the thoughtfulness and generosity of caring individuals, groups and business in the Central Okanagan and to the unique fundraising partnership between the BC Cancer Foundation (Southern Interior), Central Okanagan Hospice Association and KGH Foundation.
This home-like facility, located at 2035 Ethel Street in Kelowna, is nestled on the banks of Mill Creek in a residential neighbourhood. Upon entering the facility, you are welcomed by a large entrance with a cathedral ceiling. On either side of the entrance are two 12-bed patient homes. Each patient will have their own private room. At the core of each house is a supportive living space for patients and their families. This space includes a large kitchen and eating area to support family gatherings, an integrated living area and private den space. A private outdoor patio is located adjacent to the core. The garden space is the focal point of the facility with wandering paths, water features and seating areas.
Citizens of the Central Okanagan will have a unique opportunity to tour Central Okanagan Hospice House on Saturday, September 13, 2008 between 11:00am and 4:00pm.
The Central Okanagan Hospice Association is a non-profit organization that provides trained volunteers to offer emotional support to those living with a terminal illness and to their families through to bereavement.
Philosophy
The Central Okanagan Hospice Association (COHA) exists in the belief that through skilled and appropriate support and a sensitive, caring community, persons may be free to attain the degree of preparation for death and resolution to bereavement that is satisfactory to them.
"Hospice Care allows patients to live until they die, their families to live with them until they die, and to go on living afterwards." - Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
The Central Okanagan Hospice Association, in
partnership with the Central Okanagan Hospice Palliative Care Program, is
committed to "helping people with a terminal illness live to
the fullest until they die, and to help their loved ones deal
with their grief".
In extended care facilities and in private homes
our more than 200 carefully screened and trained volunteers
provide practical and emotional support for terminally ill
people and their families. Bedside vigil, respite for
caregivers and patient advocacy are a few of the important
components of this support.
Other services provided by COHA include children's "Good
Grief" day camps, teen and adult Bereavement Groups,
individual and family bereavement counseling and a
comprehensive "death and loss" Lending Library.
Founded in 1982, the Central Okanagan Hospice Association serves families in the Central
Okanagan, from Oyama to Peachland. We are a not for profit organization and all our programs and services are free.
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