A northwest Calgary hospice is celebrating 30 years of providing comfort, dignity and compassion to those requiring end-of-life care. The Rosedale Hospice is a seven-bed residential hospice operated by Hospice Calgary. It welcomed its first patient in 1996. Since then, the location has supported nearly 2,700 patients and their families. The facility provides end-of-life care for adults with cancer who are no longer able to remain at home or no longer require hospitalization. “As we celebrate this milestone, our thoughts are first and foremost with the patients and families who have been part of our story over the last 30 years,” said Robyn Romano, executive director of Hospice Calgary. “It is a privilege to walk alongside people during such an important time in their lives, and we remain deeply grateful for the trust families place in us every day.” Sheri Allen, Hospice Calgary board chair, says the 30-year anniversary is a time to celebrate not only the dedicated professionals who work at Rosedale Hospice, but also the volunteers whose compassion and expertise have supported thousands of patients and families. “Their hard work helped create an environment that provides support and reassurance in the most difficult of times,” she said. For the first seven years it was in operation, the Rosedale Hospice survived entirely on community donations and fundraising efforts. Though the location started receiving government funding in 2003, officials say community support remains essential, with 48 per cent of the hospice’s funding coming from donors and community partners. Those interested in learning more about Rosedale Hospice or donating can visit the Hospice Calgary website.
