Thanks to some innovative thinking from Central Health palliative care staff, an amazing partnership has emerged between the South and Central Health Foundation, the Cancer Care Foundation and Newfoundland Power.

​

A grant of $6,500, awarded through the Cancer Care Foundation, has enabled the South and Central Health Foundation to purchase and stock eight Comfort & Care Carts to aid patients and families with in-room necessities during an end of life experience.

​

These carts have been distributed to healthcare facilities throughout the region and include: Baie Verte Peninsula Health Centre, A.M. Guy Memorial in Buchans, Valley Vista Seniors Home in Springdale, Dr. Hugh Twomey Health Centre in Botwood, Lewisporte Health Centre, Connaigre Peninsula Health Centre and the Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre.

​

The Comfort & Care Cart allows family members to stay in the room with their loved one rather than having to seek out toiletries, reading material, a blanket, etc… There is even an activity bag for young visitors. The Cart has bedside convenience items for the patient as well. These additional comfort items include a blanket, toiletries, a radio, a CD player, soothing music CDs, a lamp, a relaxing sound machine and a journal to write down memories.

​

Some items on the cart are disposable, while other items will remain on the cart for the next patient. The items used on the cart such as lamps, radios, mirrors, including the cart itself, can be easily sanitized before using.  The cart is a heavy duty, low maintenance cart that has the look of wood, but is made from a rubberwood material that is resistant to mildew. Its stainless steel top can be sanitized often.

​

Because the carts will need to be re-stocked from time to time, the Foundation is accepting monetary or in-kind items for this purpose. A full list of items in need can be found below. If you would like to donate to the Comfort & Care Cart please contact the Foundation office at (709) 292-2360, or send us an email to schf@centralhealth.nl.ca.