A Year Like No Other:

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When COVID hit social, spiritual, emotional and psycho-social care at end of life were not deemed essential services.   Because dying is seen by the Canadian health care system as a medical event rather than a natural, organic event that we all inherently “know how to do”, this decision was not surprising, but it definitely reaffirmed how much work remains to be done.  It has reinforced our collective philosophy that lack of quality end of life care is a social justice issue, and after what we have witnessed in the past twelve months, there is never been a more important time to come together as a “village” to care for our dying and grieving.  

The number one question arising during the pandemic that we needed to answer has been: Can you provide dignity to a dying person when you can't physically be present for them?   The answer is “we have no choice but to do so”.  Like most things when it comes to COVID, the solution may not be ideal, but we have learned from our communities that “something is better than nothing”. 

As a result, this year has been a continuation of the virtual activities resulting from the restrictions of the COVID pandemic.  While our challenges have been more complicated, Home Hospice Association has risen to meet them: 

• The Board of Directors has initiated an environmental scan to gain a better understanding of the issues surrounding Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.  Under the leadership of Michele Steinwald, a study group of Directors has met prior to each Board meeting as a book club to explore the issues and establish policies to guide the organization 

• A Strategic Plan to establish goals and objectives for the future development of HHA was prepared and noted throughout the Annual Report 

• A Financial Planning and Policy Manual has been prepared including guidance on the development of annual budgets 

• A working partnership with Hospice Toronto was established 

• Diana’s Pathway was created as a legacy workshop to provide training for Doulas whose clients have chosen Medical Assistance in Dying.  The workshop was developed by Merri-Lee Culbert with assistance from Tracey Robertson, Leslie Shafran, and Khushboo Gupta 

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A small army of passionate change makers make the work of Home Hospice Association possible.  I thank you all and want to give special recognition to Tracey Robertson, our CEO; and Pam Keetch, our Corporate Secretary who are the heart and soul of this organization. And a special thank you to all the businesses supporting Home Hospice Association this year.