Martelise Meaker Children’s In-Patient Unit opens its doors

Categories: People & Places.

Johannesburg South, Alberton – Martelise Meaker Children’s In-Patient Unit, a newly established in- patient unit, opened in Alberton on 26 July this year. With a focus on providing specialised care and support for young patients facing life-limiting illnesses, the organisation aims to offer compassionate, palliative and holistic care to children aged between 0 and 18 years, and their families.

“We are excited to bring a distinct flagship to the Alberton community and in the Gauteng province and contribute to the growth and development of paediatric palliative care in South Africa. We are the fourth Hospice in-patient palliative children’s unit in the country,” said Tersia Burger, CEO of Stepping Stone Hospice and deputy chairperson of the Association of Palliative Care Centres (APCC).

This vital facility is based at 12 Glen Albyn Street, Raceview, Alberton and offers 10 beds, with three rooms providing ample space for parents to stay overnight. It is specially designed to help minimise stress and anxiety for loved ones. Martelise’s proud mother, Maritha Meaker, expressed that she was utterly amazed by what the Hospice team achieved and commended them for their commitment.

“I’m encouraged to see how God stands in the gap. Many of us have looked forward to the opening of this paediatric unit for a long time. Special thanks to Hospice for honouring Martelise’s memory by naming the unit after her. It is such an honor to be part of this journey,” she said.

Stepping Stone Hospice’s board member, Percy Howroyd, who has a background in the building industry, said the children’s unit was a flagship for Alberton.

“It’s a blessing to be part of this lovely unit and I’m very happy to be part of it. I see this place like a bright light. This was a place just halfway to Durban, with just a road through and some houses and it has grown massively. We are proud of being part of this amazing work,” he said.

Contact Information:

Should you be able to assist or would like to make a general donation, kindly contact Stepping Stone on 010 442 5059 or via email at tersia@steppingstonehospice.co.za

With a team of registered and accredited professionals, we strive to have a profound impact on children suffering from terminal illnesses, their families and the community.

Published with permission from Association of Palliative Care Centres.

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