Nairobi Hospice held its annual Christmas Party on 5th December to celebrate the success of the care they give to their patients.

Over 50 patients, carers and children came to share the progress they have made in 2013 and enjoy a meal together.

Gracing the occasion was the wife of the Deputy President Mrs. Rachel Chebet Ruto who hailed Nairobi Hospice for the great work they are doing for patients to access palliative care.

Fred Ikutwa, the chairperson of the Hospice Day Care and a patient of the hospice told his fellow patients to always keep in touch.

“Let this not be the last time we are seeing each other this year. Take each other’s numbers and get to know how we are all doing.” Ikutwa said.

He encouraged them not to be weak as a result of what they are going through but to be strong and live a positive life.

“God knows why we have such diseases and through His support we shall emerge victorious.” Ikutwa said.

He said that he has lived with his ailment for over 14years and it is during this period that his family was blessed with two more children following the care and encouragement from Nairobi Hospice.

“Had it not been this hash economic times, I could not have put a full stop by now.” He said amid laughter from the group he was addressing.

Speaking during the party, Nairobi Hospice Chief Executive Officer Dr Brigid Sirengo appreciated the support from all the well wishers.

“We have come a long way with this support and we urge you to continue supporting us in offering this care to our patients in future.” Dr Sirengo said.

Kenya Hospices and Palliative Care Association (KEHPCA) Executive Director Dr Zipporah Ali said that she was happy to see the Hospice patients smiling.

“I worked in this hospice for ten years and it is a joy whenever I come back and see that the care that I took part in giving to patients is still existing.” Dr. Ali said.

Twakutukuza group sang for the patients and their families and encouraged the patients to be strong with the message, “We come because you are our friend and we are happy to always see you in a jovial mood.”

The Hospice Social Worker, Linet Kitui appreciated the support from well wishers and acknowledged on behalf of all patients that such support has always made them triumph over their challenges.

Her advice to the patients was, “When someone tells you that you have cancer, do not stop what you are doing but soldier on and God will give you the strength to concur the ailment.”

Hundreds of gifts were donated to make the day joyous and end the year in style not only for the patients but also their families and carers who have gone an extra mile to make the lives of the patients more comfortable.

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