Written By David Gomez
STRATHROY-CARADOC - Council heard an update on plans to bring a hospice to the community during its Feb. 17 meeting, as representatives from Strathroy Hospice outlined the project’s progress and the need it seeks to address locally. The presentation highlighted challenges faced by residents who must currently travel outside the area to access hospice and end-of-life care.
Dr. Tyler Damen, chair of Strathroy Hospice, and vice-chair Darren Micallef spoke about the long-standing effort to establish a hospice in Strathroy-Caradoc. Micallef said the initiative has been more than eight years in the making and is driven by local volunteers committed to addressing a gap in care for the community.
“For those that don’t know, we have a phenomenal board of directors… all from the Strathroy-Caradoc area,” Micallef said, adding that members come from a range of professional backgrounds and share a common goal of bringing hospice care closer to home.
Micallef referenced data from Western Ontario Health indicating that London–Middlesex requires 38 hospice beds, noting the information is already 18 months old and demand is expected to grow. He said residents in Strathroy-Caradoc, including those in rural and Indigenous communities, often must travel long distances to access hospice services. “We have Exeter, London, Chatham, Woodstock, Sarnia, but nothing for us,” he said.
Council was told the organization has applied through the Ministry of Health’s expression of interest process and has been recommended to receive funding for five hospice beds. The group is also working to secure donated land tied to a family’s wish to see a hospice built on the property.
Micallef pointed to strong community backing, citing local fundraising initiatives such as service clubs, community events and the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign. He described the response as a reflection of the generosity and engagement of residents across the municipality.
The proposed hospice would be an approximately 8,000-square-foot facility with private rooms, shared spaces and outdoor access, designed to support not only patients but also families. “We are providing physical and emotional and spiritual support, and not just medical care,” Micallef said.
The presentation included an estimate of just over $64,000 in municipal and pre-development fees. Strathroy Hospice formally requested municipal assistance to help offset those costs, stating that funds saved would be redirected toward patient comfort and community programs.
Councillor Steve Pelkman spoke about the impact hospice care can have on families and later moved a motion asking staff to explore options to assist with early costs. Following discussion, council approved the motion, directing staff to bring forward possible solutions for future consideration.
