April 19, 2021

The Airdrie and District Hospice Society is launching its second Virtual Hike for Hospice on Sunday, May 2nd at 7 pm.  This will coincide with the start of  National Hospice Palliative Care Week  and  you can be part of the launch by requesting ADHS's Zoom link by emailing contact@airdriehospice.ca.

Each May, supporters across Canada take part in the Hike for Hospice – a vital fundraiser that enables compassionate care to be provided to those facing the end of life. ADHS supports making it possible for individuals to stay in their homes and communities with their families as long as possible. The Society has advocated for the past ten years for at-home palliative care as well as hospice beds in Airdrie.

This year, as Airdrie continues to cope with COVID-19, the Hike for Hospice will once again take place virtually at http://www.airdriehospice.ca/hike-for-hospice.

Participants can stay healthy and safe while getting active, having fun and connecting with other hikers in the community. They are encouraged to run, walk, bike, cartwheel or crawl inside or outdoors.  Pets, of course, are welcome to participate! Airdrie & District Hospice Society is inviting everyone to get creative and be active while supporting quality care for some of the most vulnerable in our community and their loved ones.    
“The past year has been tough on everyone. We just want people to have some fun again with our Virtual Hike for Hospice,” said President Daria Skibington-Roffel. “We're very grateful to all those who support us, whether that is joining the hike as an individual or team or simply helping us to spread the word.”  

The monies raised by this event will support the Airdrie and District Hospice Society to provide in-home Compassionate Care Companions for patients (as soon as health regulations permit) so that those caring for them, typically their immediate family members, can have a break. ADHS also has a Compassionate Care Fund to cover some expenses affected families may incur as well as trained volunteers who can assist those trying to access services. Most recently, grief support programs have been offered. Donations mean that all services and programs are free.

To register for the Virtual Hike for Hospice, visit http://www.airdriehospice.ca/hike-for-hospice. Donations will be accepted throughout the month and may be made through Shaw Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink which will match donations by up to 50%. Hikers are encouraged to share photos of their activities on social media using the hashtags #HikeforHospice2021 and #AirdrieHospice2021 on social media.