Sr Julia Stuurman is a tall woman, not just in stature, but in grace and heart. 25 years service as a hospice and palliative care nurse is an exceptional milestone, marked by professionalism and a deep love of humanity. She says she often gets asked how she copes in this difficult environment, and her answer…
In a recent interview with HelderbergFM, Robert de Wet (CEO) sat down with Christie Hansen to reflect on the remarkable journey of Helderberg Hospice over the past four decades. From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name in palliative and hospice care in the Helderberg, Robert shared how Helderberg Hospice has always been rooted in…
In a classy display of community and compassion, the Ruby Affair High Tea, hosted by Helderberg Hospice, took place at the Strand Town Hall on Sunday 25 May 2025. Celebrating their 40th anniversary with elegance and heart. The event was a resounding success, uniting the community in support of a noble cause: funding essential palliative…
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…
Helderberg Hospice’s Head of Social Work, Dianne Waddington, visits Hospice of the Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio, strengthening international ties in palliative care and featuring in a radio interview on the value of hospice services.
Palliative care is about so much more than medicine. It’s about people, connection, and community. Helderberg Hospice CEO, Robert de Wet, recently joined HelderbergFM for a heartfelt conversation on how Helderberg Hospice serves the Helderberg region. From support at home to counselling services and compassionate end-of-life care, our work is rooted in the belief that…
Helderberg Hospice CEO, Robert de Wet, recently sat down with Bush Radio to speak about the significance of accreditation in the palliative care sector. With a remarkable 97% score in our sixth accreditation cycle, we remain deeply committed to excellence and transparency.
Helderberg Hospice, one of two members of the Association of Palliative Care Centres (APCC) that have proudly maintained their five-star accreditation, has demonstrated its commitment to high standards in palliative care. Helderberg Hospice has achieved a 97% score in it’s sixth accreditation; its first was achieved in May 2006. “In addition to focusing on clinical…
Hospice care is often misunderstood, with many believing it is only for the final days of life, however, hospice support actually benefits individuals facing a life-limiting illness long before their final moments.
For many South Africans, access to healthcare depends on medical aid coverage. If you or a loved one are facing a life-limiting illness, you may be wondering: does medical aid cover hospice services? The answer depends on the medical scheme, level of cover, and the specific hospice services required.
Hospice care is an essential service that provides comfort, dignity, and quality of life for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. However, many people hesitate to seek hospice care and support due to concerns about cost.
Many people use the terms “hospice” and “palliative care” interchangeably, but while they share similarities, they are not the same. Understanding the distinctions can help you make informed decisions about your care or the care of a loved one facing a serious illness.
