Hospice aims high for 2014 hike

Every year, Maison Vale Hospice has to raise more than $800,000 in operating funds to cover costs not fully covered by the province, said Nathalie Depatie, the hospice's fund development co-ordinator.

Since its inception eight years ago, RBC Hike for Hospice has raised $645,000.

For many families, the hike is a chance to remember loved ones who have passed away at the facility, so it's quite emotional, said Depatie, speaking to Northern Life at the event's launch March 26. At the same time, it's a fun community event with entertainment, family-friendly activities and a hike along the boardwalk, she said.

Maison Vale Hospice, a 10-bed residential hospice established in September 2008, provides 24-hour care in a homelike setting to those within the last three months of life.

Hospice staff take care of pain and symptom management, so families can enjoy “those final few moments” with their loved ones, Depatie said.

For the seventh year, the event's title sponsor is RBC. The financial institution has donated nearly $56,000 to the event over the years, with many RBC employees also showing up at the hike and making private donations.

“It's a great, great feeling to know our employees are so willing to give their time and to participate,” said Pauline Robidoux, branch manager of RBC's Val Caron location, which hosted the event's launch.

Maison Vale Hospice is a wonderful place, said Michelle Clouthier, RBC Dominion Securities associate investment adviser, who sits on the hospice's board of directors.

“It's just like going home,” she said. “They can bring their pets and have their Christmas dinner.”

Northern Life is also one of the event's sponsors.

Abbas Homayed, Maison Vale Hospice board chair and Northern Life publisher, praised RBC for its commitment to the hike.

“RBC has been a wonderful sponsor since 2007,” he said. “They have been quite generous and they have been very supportive.”