Page 18 - Sphere No.21 (Mar 2008)

C O M M U N I T Y
16 SPHERE

HE LI KA SHING FOUNDATION’S “Heart of Gold”
Hospice Programme has recently been extended from
Mainland China to Hong Kong. The programme that
reaches nationwide to help terminal cancer patients in their last
leg of life will now also helpmake the final steps of terminal cancer
patients in Hong Kong as comfortable and dignified as possible.
Around 10,000 people die of cancer every year in Hong Kong,
a figure that represents about a third of all deaths in the city. It
is a disease that is almost always associated with extreme physi-
cal and mental pain, suffering and anguish. Not just for the
patients, but for those around them – their children, siblings,
parents and spouses. It is never a quick process; treatments
are long, cures can be temporary and relapses are depressingly
common, but the hospice programme looks to address both the
physical and mental suffering involved.
The Hong Kong hospice service programme will see the
establishment of eight hospice day care centres in the Hong
Kong Hospital Authority’s hospital clusters and the enhancement
of home-based care services, giving comfort to thousands of
HEART
OF GOLD
terminally-ill patients and their families. This holistic, multi-
disciplinary approach focuses on the provision of symptom
relief, emotional counselling and spiritual care. Behind each
of the patients and their families will be a comprehensive pal-
liative care team comprising doctors, nurses, social workers
and psychologists.
“Hospice care is all about extraordinary people taking the
time to bring hope and improve the lives of others,” said Foun-
dation Chairman Li Ka-shing. “Dignity in death is priceless and
care and respect for those with a terminal illness are key indica-
tors of our social values and the mark of any civilised society.”
Praising all front-line hospice staff involved in the programme,
Mr Li said: “Your work is imbuedwith sadness but it is admirable.
It makes a positive difference to the suffering. Hope transcends
and connects, and you bring peace, comfort and dignity.”
The palliative care services will also extend psychological and
bereavement support to anguished families, especially children,
during their suffering and loss. Under this programme, 8,000
psychological counselling sessions will be provided, while an
A new hospice programme will help Hong Kong cancer patients
By Jenny McCombie
T