Last week was the 30th annual National Palliative Care Week, an opportunity for having conversations and raising awareness about end-of-life care. Thank you to Leah, from the Palliative Care team at North Canberra Hospital, for taking the time to share this story of the role GOG Goodies play in even the most difficult times – we appreciate everything you do for the Canberra community.
“During my brief time here at the hospital I have accessed a number of beautiful crochet blankets and given them to dying patients in their last hours to days of life.
Last week I was referred to an elderly lady who was actively dying in respiratory distress, she was all alone in a single room. I came across a ‘purple knitted koala’ in the volunteer store room and placed it in her arms. Immediately I saw a change in her distress levels. It is amazing to see how a teddy bear can bring so much comfort. She died the next day whilst still holding the bear.
Thank you to the volunteers that allow me to provide love through your handmade gifts.”
