Echuca Regional Health’s courtyard was the scene for a special Palliative Care Week lunch on May 24.
More than 60 people, including members of the Palliative Care Team, the Bereavement Walking Group and other special guests, attended what was the inaugural lunch.
“It is the first time we’ve held the lunch as part of National Palliative Care Week (May 21-27),” ERH Inpatient Palliative Care co-ordinator Jo Amos said.
“It is the major event of the week and provided an opportunity for us to get together in a relaxed setting, talk together, reminisce and enjoy each other’s company.
“We’ve got members of the community, inpatients, members of the Allied Health team, doctors and members of the executive team in attendance.”
The theme of 2023 National Palliative Care Week was Matters of Life and Death.
ERH’s Community Palliative Care Team members sported blue T-shirts which had the theme printed on them.
ERH Community Palliative Care nurse Libby Bell spoke of why the theme resonates with so many.
“Life is highlighted on the T-shirts and that is great because it is about living your best life while living with a terminal illness,” she said.
“Palliative care is not just about dying; it can be years from diagnosis that someone needs palliative care.
“It is about getting the best quality care and living your life … ticking off the bucket list items.”
The lunch featured a wide array of food, all of which had a special meaning.
People who brought a plate were encouraged to fill out a card which represented a loved one.
Items included profiteroles, a Bailey’s fruit cake, New Zealand asparagus rolls, ham and pickle sandwiches, sponge cakes and Boston buns.