Official opening of the Family Bereavement Room and launch of Tree of Remembrance in Lourdes Hospital

Thursday Dec 11th  was a special day in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital as broadcaster George Hook officially opened the hospital’s new Family Bereavement Room, and staff unveiled the annual Tree of Remembrance.

The Family Bereavement Room is a space created for relatives to grieve the passing of a loved one. It is also a dedicated space for them to spend a short period with their deceased relative before they are transferred to the care of the funeral director.

Speaking about the facility, Operational Services Manager, Yvonne Gregory complimented the staff who had fundraised to assist with the refurbishment of the space and provide the furnishings and artwork for the rooms. She said, “The provision of this facility is testament to the efforts of the hospital staff who fundraised in the last year to generate the funds to carry out this work. It is much needed within the hospital, and will offer a dedicated space of solace for families who are bereaved. I am proud of the staff for recognising and supporting this need.”

The Hospital End of Life Coordinator, Mary McGrane welcomed the opening of the facility. She said, “We aim to fulfil the requirements of a Hospice Friendly Hospital (HFH), where we have dedicated space for families to spend time near their relative who is approaching end of life. This facility meets that aim and also offers families the option of spending time immediately after death with their relative in a relaxed and quiet environment. We hope to continue to deliver similar facilities in other parts of hospital in the future.”

Fiona Edwards, A/Group General Manager, Louth Meath Hospital, added, “This is continuing our aim of realising the HFH ethos at the hospital. I am delighted also that we are able to welcome Mr. George Hook to the hospital today to undertake the official opening of the facility”.

Staff also unveiled the hospital’s Tree of Remembrance. This is a symbol of love for all who have died recently or some time ago and provides an annual opportunity for staff and visitors to remember colleagues, family and friends by placing a card of prayer or thought on the tree.

The Hospice Friendly Hospital Programme 
The Hospice Friendly Hospitals Programme was launched in 2007, with the aim of developing and promoting a culture of care for those facing death in hospitals that would draw on the principles of hospice care. More information on the Hospice Friendly Hospital Initiative is available on http://hospicefoundation.ie/healthcare-programmes/hospice-friendly-hospitals/hospice-friendly-hospitals/. 

Mr. George Hook has undertaken work in the past with the Hospice Friendly Hospitals Initiative. He has featured in and commented on material used by the HFI as part of their media campaigns. It is for this reason that he was invited to open the facility at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Hospital Management are delighted that he has taken time from his busy schedule to do so.