Giving the gift of joy to Granada
15 Dec 2022
The Palliative Care Unit at St John of God Bunbury Hospital, Granada, now offers a drink to patients each Friday, during their happy hour.
The goal of the Granada happy hour is to bring some light and enjoyment to palliative care patients.
When Andrew Reeves passed away at St John of God Bunbury Hospital, his wife Therese and good friend Matt Denham donated over $700 to Granada. At the time of the donation, Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager, Kerry Smith had been working hard to get bring the Happy Hour Project to life and Therese and Matt were delighted to be the inaugural support to get it up and running.
Therese, her daughter Emily her Mother Val attended the Happy Hour launch with Andrew’s picture in hand. Although Matt was unable to attend, Therese ensured he was kept updated with plenty of photos.
Several palliative care patients enjoyed a drink on Friday afternoon, when the drinks trolley made its very first round.
St John of God Bunbury Hospital CEO Jeffrey Williams said the positive effect this had on patients was instant.
“Our patients have been uplifted by the opportunity to share a drink and a smile with their loved ones.”
“We have already seen some special moments being shared between families,” Jeffrey said.
After 30 years of service to St John of God Bunbury Hospital, Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager, Kerry Smith retired this month and bringing this project to life was her parting gift to the hospital.
Patients who request an alcohol beverage must be signed off by their doctor first, and can then be prescribed one standard drink during the happy hour service.
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