A large sign on our front lawn announces in bold letters, “Hike for Hospice, St. Joseph’s Hospice of London, October 19th, 2024. Register today!
In line with this initiative, a few days ago Teresa, a bright, pleasant woman who had been in my grade 9 English class over 40 years ago, had just come from St. Joseph’s Hospice, our neighbours next door, after delivering part of a sizeable monetary donation to the upcoming hike. She stopped and chatted with me. During our conversation, I learned that she has been an avid hospice canvasser for over 14 years during which time her family endured the death of their mother, father and sister due to cancer. Thanks to hospice care across Canada, people in the last stages of life can experience compassionate care mentally, physically and spiritually as did Teresa’s family members.
Throughout the dying process, with hospice care, families are a continuing present with their loved one at various stages of care, be it at home, in hospital, or hospice setting. They are deeply grateful for the many comfort measures bestowed on them and their loved one until death. In fact, my friend was determined to show her appreciation for wonderful hospice care. Thus, she decided to become a fundraiser.
Teresa’s enthusiasm for hospice means that she never stops engaging possible donors until her goal has been realized. She began her canvassing by gaining the eager support of her siblings, family and friends. Word traveled by word of mouth, other donors enlisted and from there, the hospice donations continued to grow to the point where anonymous donors send money through her link to hospice. The total amount Teresa submits to hospice yearly reaches approximately $3,000. WOW! That’s the power of one.
On October 19th, Teresa, her family, friends and many others will lace up their running shoes, don this year’s pink tee shirt and run, walk or jog to Eco Park London in memory of their loved ones. Moreover, they will run in thanksgiving for and support of St. Joseph’s Hospice London. Might you be among them?
-Sister Jean Moylan, CSJ