For Immediate Release – Clarington, ON. October 13 2023
Today the Board of Directors of Marigold Hospice Care (formerly Durham Hospice Clarington), marked a major milestone when they broke ground for the new hospice residence being built in Clarington. Over the past six years the board has worked its way through architecture, planning approvals, two public tender efforts and most importantly, fund raising; today the board’s perseverance was rewarded when they turned the sod to signal the start of construction.
“It is simply wonderful to finally be at this point”, noted Melodie Zarzeczny, the Board Chair of Marigold Hospice Care. We have had many challenges, but at no time did we contemplate giving up on our vision of a hospice residence for individuals who are near end of life, a place offering comfort, care and compassion to them and to their families. This is a goal worth pursuing, and we have done that.”
Hospice residences are an increasingly important part of the health care system. Residents can live their last days with family, friends and pets, enjoying the outdoors if they wish, and the peaceful environment inside and outside. Residents are well cared for by professional medical staff and dedicated, trained volunteers.
And hospice residences are a way to alleviate some of the pressures in the acute care hospital sector, by caring for patients who choose to live their final days outside of the more intense hospital experience.
The ground breaking was attended by many community supporters, donors, elected officials, and business representatives who have strongly endorsed the building of a hospice residence by their generosity, their participation in events, and their voices of support at all levels of government.
“I am thrilled to be here. Today’s ground-breaking launches us forward to build the much-needed Marigold Hospice Care in Clarington. We are here thanks to the dedicated volunteers who have worked tirelessly for a home-like hospice facility for those at the end of their lives. I am proud to be part of the Clarington Council, which has so strongly supported this project, and I can’t wait to come back for the official grand opening,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.
“It’s a dream come true”, said Jill Richardson, a board member and one of the founding members of the hospice board.
“The community needs this resource, and I am thrilled to bits to see it taking shape”, said another founding member, Marian Timmermans.
To date, the community has raised more than $8million, and fund raising is continuing for furnishings, fixtures and equipment. Construction will begin shortly, and is expected to take 14 – 18 months.
For more information:
Melodie Zarzeczny
Board Chair
416-525-4776
