Toronto (June 24, 2003) - With its warm colours and etched-glass photos of soothing nature scenes, the new Harold and Shirley Lederman Palliative Care Centre at Princess Margaret Hospital sets a new standard for end-of-life care. The 12-bed palliative care center, Ontario's first academic palliative care unit at a cancer center, was officially dedicated today.
Each patient room in the unit features a unique nature picture on etched glass, offering privacy, yet adds light and warmth to the room. A special family room allows visitors to take a quiet break and fix a quick snack.
The Centre also directly joins to the hospital's Max Tanenbaum Garden, where patients or their family can relax under a canopy of shell-shaped sun blockers, or next to a terraced collection of foliage and flowers.
"Besides the comforting setting and beautiful surroundings of this unit, this opening is also about a philosophy of care," said Dr. Robert Bell, VP and Chief Operating Officer of Princess Margaret Hospital. "Cancer patients receiving end-of-life care need special treatment for pain management, as well as psychological support for the journey ahead of them."
Named to honour Harold and Shirley Lederman, for their embodiment of the spirit of philanthropy, dedication and generosity, The Harold and Shirley Lederman Palliative Care Centre will provide respectful and compassionate care for our patients.
Palliative Care research and education of future palliative care specialists is one of the primary goals of the Centre. The establishment of the Harold and Shirley Lederman Chair in Palliative Care will help Princess Margaret Hospital spearhead an academic program in the fields of palliative care and psychosocial oncology.
About Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation
The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation at University Health Network raises funds for research, education and the enhancement of patient care at Princess Margaret Hospital and its research arm, the Ontario Cancer Institute. UHN brings together the innovation, talent and resources needed to achieve global impact and provide exemplary patient care, research and education. UHN and its partner Foundations, Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation, the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation and the Arthritis & Autoimmunity Research Centre Foundation, have recently embarked on a $400 million fund raising campaign. The PMH Foundation is committed to raising $147 million toward this goal. Together We Make Life Better.
