by Kate Heaney
DONEGAL Hospice, which celebrated 20 years serving patients and their families in Donegal in March, this week embarked on a long-awaited extension and upgrade to their premises at Knocknamona in Letterkenny.
The hospice which served so many people of the county, have lodged a planning application this week for four new apartments to accommodate patients and their families at what is a very difficult time for any family. There are also plans to upgrade and expand existing facilities.
Speaking this week Donegal Hospice Committee Chairperson Isobell Rodgers expressed her thanks for the support the hospice has had down the years from the local community.
“The planned works will allow us to better meet the needs of patients and their families at such a challenging time. We are so grateful for the amount of fundraising that has gone on which is overwhelming. The people of Donegal have been so good to the hospice. We would not be where we are without you.
“This expansion is a significant milestone in providing end of life care for patients and their families,” Ms Rodgers said.
Donegal Hospice Committee CLG, in partnership with the HSE announced the submission of the planning application this week.
Also included in the development is the provision of additional rooms for services including Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work, as well as training and educational facilities.
The project team includes members of the HSE and the Donegal Hospice Board of directors who will work closely together to ensure that this project is completed in a timely manner.
The building works will include the redevelopment of the daycare area and the resumption of this service which will enhance the care provided to the Donegal community.
Ms Rodgers was hopeful that the planning process would take around three months.
“This is an exciting endeavour for the Donegal Hospice,” she added.
Mandy Doyle from the HSE described the expansion as an opportunity to enhance their ability to provide compassionate care and support to patients and their families in their time of need.
“We are grateful to the community for their ongoing support and look forward to the completion of the Donegal Hospice facility that will truly make a difference to all those who use it,” she added.
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