Mercy Health has this month celebrated 40 years of Mercy Palliative Care, a ministry based on an “unwavering commitment'“ to support patients in their living and their dying.

The event celebrated the unwavering support of all the current Mercy Palliative Care (MPC) staff, donors and volunteers and the rich legacy that came before them – including those who launched the service 40 years ago.

*Members of the Mercy Palliative Care team at the 40th anniversary celebration. PHOTO: Catholic Health Australia website.*

Those in attendance at the anniversary celebration were able to reflect on the shared experiences and celebrate the important service MPC provides patients as they are nearing end of life.

MPC has grown tremendously over four decades into a 24-hour multidisciplinary service. The service cares for more than 600 patients at any given time and receives more than 2,200 referrals each year across seven local government areas.

Mercy Health Group CEO Angela Nolan thanked staff for their dedication to being present for patients and their families at a vulnerable time.

“Our Mercy Palliative Care team each have a deep understanding about the meaning of life and an unwavering commitment to support our patients in their living and in their dying,” said Ms Nolan.

“Our team plays a critical role supporting patients by easing their pain, helping them find meaning at the end of their lives, and being a hopeful presence to friends and family.”

For forty years Mercy Health’s Palliative Care team of doctors, nurses, social workers, volunteers, and counsellors have remained steadfast in their commitment to providing the best quality of life possible to patients.

This article was published on the Catholic Health Australia website.