Hike for Hospice raises funds

Details

Published on Friday, July 1, 2016

By Naomi Russell

submitted article

On Sunday, June 12 Riverdale Palliative Care held its Hike for Hospice fundraiser.  The event is held annually to not only raise funds for the local organization, but to also remember and honour the clients who have died in the past year. It is also a time to celebrate the efforts of the many dedicated caregivers and volunteers who care for those who are facing life-limiting illnesses and for their loved ones.

These volunteers work many hours with those approaching death to ensure the burdens of suffering, loneliness and grief are lessened. Nine people collected pledges totalling $3,261 and 16 hikers walked a route out to Rivers Cemetery.   

Dora Irvine and Joan Thomson staged vignettes celebrating the lives of several former Rivers community leaders who are buried at our cemetery. These histories were read by Dora, Joan, Stan and Sheila Runions. A barbecue was held at Rivers Health Centre afterwards and many community members, as well as several clients from Rivers Rehab, dropped by for a burger or a smokie, raising a further $81; Rick Lerch was the grill master. 

Riverdale Palliative Care is also pleased with the recent donations made in memory of loved ones. All funds raised in our community stay in our community. Anyone wishing more information about our local committee work, or to express an interest in taking the volunteer course, can feel free to contact Esther Krahn at 204-328-7189.