NL Health Services Partners with Lionel Kelland Hospice to Ensure Dignity and Respect for Those Nearing End-of-life
As an individual nears end of life, the reality of those preparations may come with a great deal of stress and upset for both the patient and their loved ones. That is why Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services is thankful to have community partners, such as Lionel Kelland Hospice in Grand Falls-Windsor which offers individuals nearing their end-of-life journey with the health-care services they need in a home-like environment.
Located in Grand Falls-Windsor, Lionel Kelland Hospice officially opened in November 2023 to support individuals nearing their end-of-life journey.
Along with end-of-life supports including palliative care and medical assistance in dying (MAiD) services provided by NL Health Services, our partnership with Lionel Kelland Hospice helps ensure individuals throughout Newfoundland and Labrador entering their final days are treated with the utmost care, dignity and respect.
“NL Health Services is committed to providing patients, and their loved ones, with end-of-life services that are built around compassion and dignity. The partnership that we have developed with Lionel Kelland Hospice helps make that possible,” says Craig Davis, Chief Operating Officer (Interim) for Central Zone of NL Health Services. “In addition, the work between NL Health Services, the Department of Health and Community Services, and Lionel Kelland Hospice is leading the way in developing hospice services in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Work began in 2014 between NL Health Services and health-care professionals to explore options for a community-based facility that would offer compassionate palliative and end-of-life care in a home-like setting. NL Health Services worked in partnership with the provincial government and Killick Hospice Care Inc. to facilitate the establishment of Newfoundland and Labrador’s first community residential hospice facility.
In April 2024, Lionel Kelland Hospice accepted its first resident at the 10-bed facility. It is staffed around the clock with members of an inter-professional medical team, including a medical advisor, registered nurses, licensed practical nurse, personal care assistants, as well as with support from a social worker, administration, facility support, and a dedicated group of volunteers. It is a self-governing entity and registered charity.
Lionel Kelland Hospice provides a home-like environment for residents that is centered around dignity and compassion.
A common misconception surrounding hospice services is that it is a “place to die,” but hospices offer so much more. At Lionel Kelland Hospice, residents receive medical care to decrease pain and other symptoms associated with end of life, and there are psychological and spiritual programs available, along with complimentary therapies and other opportunities that provide comfort and serenity through the end-of-life journey.
In addition, the hospice provides supports for loved ones including grief and bereavement, and on-site suites so families can always be close.
Since opening, Lionel Kelland Hospice has demonstrated a commitment to providing compassionate care, family support and community engagement to make a significant difference in the lives of many. Their efforts to provide care and support to patients spending their last days at Lionel Kelland Hospice have not gone unnoticed.
Patients, loved ones and hospice volunteers often attest to the profound impact that this service has had. They have noted that, the Lionel Kelland Hospice has allowed them to be at the side of a loved one during their final days, supported by staff who are “kind and gentle.”
Provincial operational standards for hospice care have been developed by a provincial advisory committee, led by the Department of Health and Community Services and with representation from NL Health Services’ leadership and Lionel Kelland Hospice. This work will guide potential hospice services for this province going forward.
While NL Health Services and the Department of Health and Community Services have worked closely with Lionel Kelland Hospice, many valued partners and donors have also supported the hospice project along the way.
“At Lionel Kelland Hospice, our mission is to provide compassionate care that honors the dignity and individuality of each person during their end-of-life journey,” says Peggy Hamilton, Executive Director of Lionel Kelland Hospice. “We are proud to collaborate with NL Health Services and other passionate community partners to create a supportive, home-like environment where residents and their loved ones can find comfort and peace. Our dedicated team of health-care professionals and volunteers is committed to ensuring that every moment matters, and we are grateful for the trust and support of the Central Newfoundland community.”
To learn more about the services provided by Lionel Kelland Hospice, please visit https://lionelkellandhospice.ca/.