R65k raised for Beacon of Care at popular high tea event
The afternoon event saw women from across the North Coast don frocks, heels and fascinators for a high tea hosted at All Souls Anglican Church. Tea was followed by a lively bingo session as more than R65 000 was raised for the charity at the time of publication.
Founded in December 2018 due to the lack of local hospices, the organisation cares for people with end-stage diseases from Umdloti through Westbrook, Ballito, Salt Rock, Shakaskraal and Groutville.
Beacon of Care's team includes doctors, nurses, social workers, dieticians, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, addressing patients' needs through home-based medical care.
Dr Helena Nothnagel – one of the five founding members – explained that volunteers visit patients' homes to assist in caring for those with cancer and sometimes end-stage dementia.
'This is one of the biggest fundraising events we have ever had,' said Dr Nothnagel. 'It is amazing to see the community come out and support us.'
She said the organisation chose not to establish an in-patient hospice, but rather to provide quality care that allows people to die with dignity at home.
The average first-time visit lasts two hours – a service increasingly difficult for GPs to provide – with follow-up visits often taking an hour or more.
'GPs used to look after people from cradle to grave, but that is not possible in the modern world,' she said.
During his speech, Rector Andrew Manning shared how the organisation supported him and his late wife during her battle with cancer.
'I am personally grateful to the Beacon of Care team for the support they gave me,' he said.
'To have a group of people so committed to compassion is unique and something very special. We came to honour this group who help others.'
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