Pandemic moves popular Hike for Hospice to virtual event

Hospice Prince Edward Community Development Director Melanie Dailey with her family Chuck, Jasper and Andrew, made a video to promote this year’s virtual Hike for Hospice.

From her makeshift office in her dining room at home, Melanie Dailey, Hospice Prince Edward’s new Community Development Director, is promoting a virtual version of the popular annual Hike for Hospice event.

“We are doing what it takes to continue offering critical services to those that are ill, dying, or grieving,” said Dailey. “The unwavering dedication of our volunteers and the frontline staff at our residence is inspiring.”

Dailey says Hospice Prince Edward clients, their loved ones, and a dedicated team of volunteers have all all been affected by changes to the organizations programs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are now providing compassionate care through phone and video calls to our palliative care clients at home, and for those seeking grief and bereavement support,” said Dailey. “We have also temporarily changed the visitor policies and procedures at our residence, and everyone who can do so, is now working from home.

As the community is unable to gather together for the annual Hike for Hospice fundraising day, the team has been brainstorming creative ways to bolster the community, rally support, and raise the funds urgently needed to continue to operate.

“Funds raised are used to deliver high-quality, compassionate palliative care in our three bedroom residence, train and assist our visiting volunteers who care for ill and dying clients and their families at home, offer ongoing grief and bereavement support, and provide the community with resources and expertise for advanced care planning – all at no cost to our clients.”

May 2nd was the intended date for the 9th annual ‘Hike for Hospice’.

“The Hike is our major fundraising event, and a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together in the spirit of celebration, remembrance, and gratitude.

“Our planned hike date is behind us, but the spirit and intention behind this important event are not,” said Dailey. “With the generous support of our title sponsors, Chestnut Park and Pioneer Health Care, we are thrilled to invite you to join our first ever ‘Virtual’ Hike for Hospice.”

Hosting a virtual event means that all of supporters, near and far, can join in the fun by registering, seeking pledges, then hiking how you want, when you want. A virtual celebration will be live-streamed on June 27.

Those who choose not to register for the ‘Virtual’ Hike, can support Hospice with a donation.

“Every dollar counts, and is deeply appreciated,” said Dailey.

“I am doing my best to rise to this occasion and adapt to the unprecedented situation COVID-19 has created. The news can be frightening, but the acts of kindness and generosity I hear about each day warm my heart. I am so proud to be part of a community that cares for one another and does what it takes to keep each other safe.”

Click here to support the Hike for Hospice, or learn more about services.