BY SCOTT HUNTER HADDOW
The Sudbury Regional Palliative Care Association (SRPCA) and their volunteers helps people with terminal illnesses and their families cope through extremely difficult and trying times.
These volunteers are pure heart and soul, with a vibrant caring spirit.
Without these people, many people would suffer extreme hardship facing end of life challenges.
On Saturday, Oct. 25, the SRPCA, in recognition of National Hospice Week will host its "Caring Moments/ Brins D'amour" second annual Gala Silent Auction and Dance. The purpose of the event is to increase public awareness, recruit new volunteers and fundraise for the organization.
Deputy mayor and city councillor Louise Portelance knows the program makes a huge difference in people's lives. She was a volunteer for SRPCA for nine years.
"I have seen, first hand, the effects of this program and they're great," said Portelance. "If we didn't have this program, people wouldn't be able to chose to die in the dignity they choose."
Portelance has seen the volunteer base expand.
"When we started in 1989 there was 12 volunteers and now there are over 300," said Portelance. "It's imperative the community is aware of this program and to support it."
Greater Sudbury Fire Service Fire Chief, Donald Donaldson believes our community is better for all with the SRPCA service and its caring volunteers.
"Without these people providing this wonderful service, our community would have a lot less caring and sorrow in it," said Donaldson. "Organizations like the SRPCA makes our town a better place to live in."
Sixty-four per cent of the SRPCA's financial resources come from fundraising and donations. These funds are vital to keeping volunteers at their best when dealing with people at their worst.
"Our volunteers are extensively trained to deal with the emotional, spiritual, social and physical strain with end of life," said Kendall Yeomans, community awareness chair with the SRPCA. "They're extraordinary people doing extraordinary work. Last year we helped over 300 families in the Sudbury Manitoulin District."
The event will feature a silent auction, cocktails, dance and live music. It takes place at the Steelworker's Hall on Frood Road and begins at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $25 and all proceeds go to the SRPCA.
