Hospice Jan 2011
In the early 1990’s the Latin Parish of Paphos considered a purpose built western style hospice to provide palliative care free to all the people of the area regardless of nationality or creed, the very first of its kind in the Middle Eastern sector. Eventually, after plans had been drawn up, planning permission was first sought in 1998 for the hospice to be built on part of the land owned by the Church at Mesa Chorio. Unfortunately it took several years before central Government and Paphos Municipality finally granted planning permission.Work began in 2002 on clearing the site and the foundation work was begun in 2003. So far, in excess of £450,000 has been spent on site clearance, foundations, retaining walls, and skeleton structure: money that was raised by the commendable efforts of individuals and small groups. When completed, the the building will comprise a basement, ground, first and second floors providing patients en-suite bedrooms, dining area, lounge with TV, therapy areas, treatment rooms, reception and administration areas. There will be accommodation for families, carers and nursing staff.
St.Michael’s Hospice is being built in the tranquil setting of the village of Mesa Chorio. It will encompass palliative and holistic care, residential nursing care and treatment centre and will be open to everyone, irrespective of nationality, belief or ability to pay.
It will be a place where anyone suffering from various stages of a terminal illness can receive palliative care and symptom control. Palliative care is holistic care that alleviates pain, anxiety, nausea and other symptoms without curing the cause of the illness. It also includes the emotional, psychological and spiritual support for the patient, family and carers.
At least another €400,000 was needed to complete the commissioning of the Hospice, we have so far raised over €200,000 towards that so please continue to support this worthy cause by holding fund-raising events or sending your donations to the addresses detailed on the last page. It is a project for all people of goodwill, sympathetic and responsive to the great need in Paphos for this hospice.
