From Modest Beginnings to Community Cornerstone
What started in 1985 as a heartfelt mission by Sister Pat Pigeon (deeply moved by a talk from Dame Cicely Saunders) has blossomed into a pillar of care in the Helderberg region. Back then, hospice visits happened from the back of a car, with a borrowed room behind a Church Street shop as the base of operations. Today, Helderberg Hospice has grown into a well-established centre offering a 10-bed In-Patient Support Centre, administrative offices, training facilities, and a tranquil Garden of Remembrance.
People at the Heart of It All
Helderberg Hospice is more than just a place – it’s a community of care. With 52 staff members and over 130 volunteers, the work is shared by many hands and guided by compassionate hearts. At the core of their approach is an Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) model that brings together doctors, nurses, social workers, and spiritual carers to support patients and their families through every step of their journey.
Extending Care into Every Corner of the Helderberg
Most of the hospice’s care happens where people need it most: at home. Serving a wide area of 370 square kilometres, the team ensures that patients receive dignified, personalised care without having to leave the comfort of familiar surroundings. From loaning out medical equipment to providing counselling and symptom management, the reach of Helderberg Hospice stretches far and wide.
Standing for Quality and Trust
Helderberg Hospice proudly holds a five-star accreditation from the Association of Palliative Care Centres (APCC), a recognition backed by the rigorous standards of COHSASA. As CEO Robert de Wet explains, this accreditation is more than a badge of honour; it’s a promise to patients, families, and donors that the highest standards of care and ethics are upheld every day.
A Celebration to Remember
The milestone was marked in style with the “Ruby Affair” high tea at Strand Town Hall. Guests arrived in their Sunday best to enjoy an afternoon of music, laughter, heartfelt stories, and joyful connection. The event wasn’t just about looking back and it was a tribute to the people who’ve built, supported, and believed in the mission of Helderberg Hospice over four remarkable decades.
Legacy Lives On
The story of Fritz and Yvette is just one among many that show how deeply hospice care touches lives. Their journey with Helderberg Hospice (marked by love, planning, and generosity) culminated in a legacy gift that continues to support others in need. The Garden of Remembrance, where their story is honoured, offers a peaceful space for all to reflect and remember.
As Helderberg Hospice steps into its next chapter, the invitation is open to you, be it through a monthly donation, volunteering your time, or simply sharing their story. With your support, this incredible legacy of care can continue to grow, ensuring that no one has to walk the path of serious illness alone.