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Compassion in Crisis: Comfort and Caring

COHA is proud to work with our partners to complement the medical care that clients receive. Comfort while living with a serious illness is important, and COHA supports many comforts for individuals and families throughout the community, in private homes, in Hospice House, Brookhaven Care Centre, or in the hospital.

The garden at the Central Okanagan Hospice House is a beautiful tranquil space for individuals and families to spend time in, enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and the vibrant colors. The tranquility of the garden offers a place where families can bring their loved ones outside or take some time for themselves for personal reflection. COHA contributes to making the gardens a special place for many.

When individuals arrive at the Central Okanagan Hospice House or at Brookhaven Care Centre, they are often missing some familiar comforts they would normally get from their home. In some cases, this includes things like their favourite TV channels, movies, or a special show. COHA provides Shaw cable services to the Central Okanagan Hospice House and Brookhaven Care Centre, and even upgraded services upon special requests as an added touch.

Time is precious, transportation can be a barrier at times and under certain circumstances we help individuals access transportation get to where they need to go to spend time with their loved ones.

One of our goals is to help create some normalcy for individuals and their family during difficult times. COHA decorates the Central Okanagan Hospice House for the seasons and holidays, bringing a spark of joy to individuals and families.

Celebrations are an important aspect when trying to feel a sense of normality, and acknowledging holidays is something that most families and individuals do throughout their lives. COHA also celebrates special days such as birthdays and anniversaries, marking those joyous occasions even throughout a difficult journey. Summer BBQ’s are a sign of the beautiful months of sun. Music can reach everyone, evoking memories of past moments, or forging connections through lyrics and tunes. COHA coordinates with local musicians to spend time in the Central Okanagan Hospice House, playing the piano and other instruments for the individuals and their families. Some of our musicians sing as well, and these sounds float through the air so everyone can enjoy the tune.

Not everyone has the means to leave a legacy as they wish. Leaving a legacy is one of the most important ways one wants to be remembered and COHA supports special requests during these hardships looking for creative ways for this lasting impression.

No matter where in the community you are, COHA volunteers are there. Our volunteers provide vigil services in the hours or days before someone’s death. Compassionate and trained volunteers may sit in reflection, play soft music, provide a gentle touch in comfort, be a healing presence or a listening ear for family and friends who wish to share their thoughts and feelings. Vigil services are also available at any time, day or night, so no one is alone when they die. This also goes for family and friends to make sure they have the support they need, in their hardest times.

These are just some of the comfort and caring measures that COHA offers our community members and individuals. But we need your help to keep these services going. Please make your donation to COHA’s Compassion in Crisis campaign today.

Help Make a Difference

There are many ways to get involved to help the dying, grieving and their loved ones in the Central Okanagan.

DONATE TO COHA