Moments That Mattered...

• Garden Volunteers Have Been Busy Bees: Our gardens have been blooming and thriving this month, keeping our wonderful garden volunteers busy as they prepare for the seasonal changes ahead.
• Another Successful Rooster Classic: Thank you to the family and friends of Bruce "Rooster" Withers for another incredibly successful day of golf in support of hospice care. Read more below.
• Comforting Visits from Ellie: One of our therapy dogs, Ellie, came to visit residents, loved ones, staff, and volunteers, bringing comfort and love to all.
• A Welcome Lunch Surprise: Our staff were so grateful for the surprise lunch from Jerry Francis Desjardins insurance agent, and his team. This lovely act was so appreciated!
• 27th Annual Dragon Boat Festival: This September 13th marks the 27th annual Dragon Boat Festival by the Stratford Rotary Club. If you're attending the festival, keep an eye out for Clan MacDougald, who will be collecting and matching any donations to Rotary Hospice up to $1,000!
• So Long Meg! We tearfully bid farewell to our delightful summer student Meg after her third summer with us. Her sunny presence, hard work, and enthusiasm for hospice care will be deeply missed as she returns to her studies at The University of Guelph.
• Handbags for Hospice Sponsors: We are grateful to the local businesses for supporting our 7th Annual Handbags for Hospice event. Ticket details below!
• Shared Moments of Connection: A hospice resident has been regularly connecting with one of our music volunteers to discuss music, movies, and sing beloved songs together. These moments of connection are so meaningful for those in our care and are a reflection of how our volunteers make every moment matter for our residents and their loved ones.
• Staff Potluck: Our social committee planned an evening potluck dinner for staff, in which delicious food and friendly company were shared. These gatherings are so special for staff, helping to create deeper bonds and support a sense of teamwork and camaraderie.

😊Silly Joke of the Month: Why did the scarecrow win an award?

Answer: Because he was out standing in his field.

'Your grief is as unique to you as your fingerprint. Therefore, you are your own best guide in your unique grief. Seasonal changes, especially the transition from summer to fall and then into winter, can intensify your grief for several reasons. Knowing these can help you be prepared to take better care of yourself and tend to your grief and healing in these seasonal transitions.

Seasonal Changes

Shorter Days and Longer Nights: Reduced daylight can affect your mood, leading to feelings of sadness or depression, which may amplify your grief. The longer nights can also bring about feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Weather Changes: Colder weather and the loss of greenery can symbolize an end, mirroring the sense of loss in your grief. This can bring grief to the forefront as nature itself appears to be “mourning” in its way. On the other hand, I have had clients who feel comforted in the feeling that the exterior landscape now matches their interior landscape.

Seasonal Events and Traditions: As fall and winter approach, reminders of upcoming holidays and past traditions can trigger memories of your loved ones who have died, intensifying your grief experience. The seasonal transition can come with anxiety and dread of holiday expectations of joy. 

Social and Cultural Expectations

Holiday Preparations: Even in September, the early signs of holiday marketing and planning can stir your anxiety and sadness, reminding you of gatherings and traditions that may feel incomplete without your loved one.

Social Gatherings: Fall often brings increased social activity indoors (school starting, holidays approaching), which can be overwhelming if you’re not ready to participate in festivities or feel the absence of someone significant.

Internal Reflection

End-of-Year Reflection: We aren’t there yet, but the approaching end of the year can lead to reflection on the past, including the loss and the challenges of navigating the year without your loved one. This introspection can deepen your feelings of grief. Knowing this can help you 1) opt out, or 2) redirect your self-care to the present, right now, and/or 3) expand your network of support. You deserve a lush ecosystem of support, in your grief, and always. Imagine what that might feel like and expect in your life.'

The above excerpt was written by Grief Coach Robin Held and the complete article can be found here.

If you or a loved one needs some additional support this fall as you navigate the path of grief and loss, please reach out to us. We are here to offer support and guidance to grieving individuals in our community. You can connect with our Registered Social Workers by email: sw@rotaryhospice.ca or by phone: 519-508-4900 ext. 740.

Steps for Support Walking Group

Grief can feel heavy, but you don't have to carry it alone. Our Steps for Support walking group offers a gentle way to connect with others who have experienced loss. Each week, we come together for light exercise, meaningful conversation, and the comfort of shared understanding. Whether you walk quietly alongside others or share your story, you'll find companionship and support every step of the way. All are welcome.

To learn more or register, please reach out to our social work team: sw@rotaryhospice.ca or 519-508-4900 ext. 740

The 6th Annual Rooster Classic: A Swinging Success!

August 23rd marked the 6th Annual Rooster Classic Golf Day, held in memory of Bruce "Rooster" Withers, who received compassionate care at Rotary Hospice. This year's event was extra special, taking place on Bruce's birthday and celebrating the things he loved most - family, friends, sports, fishing, and of course, pie!

"We had a record-breaking 87 golfers join us, with even more attending the banquet," shared Carolyn Clark, Bruce's widow and event organizer. "We're so grateful to everyone who made this day such a success. It is our honour to give back to the hospice that gave us a place to call home when we were in need. Our hearts are full."

What began as a tribute to Bruce has grown into a beloved family tradition, raising vital funds to support hospice care for others in our community.

We are deeply grateful to the dedicated organizers, the many volunteers who gave their time, and the golfers and supporters who return year after year. Your generosity ensures that residents and loved ones in our community continue to receive the comfort, dignity, and compassion they deserve at the end of life. Thank you.

Volunteer Opportunities at Rotary Hospice

We are looking for compassionate volunteers to join our team and make a meaningful difference in our community.

Visiting Hospice Volunteers: Volunteers provide comfort, companionship, and support to individuals and loved ones in their own homes, helping to ease the journey through illness and loss. We are especially in need of those with weekday availability, as this is often the best time of day for those receiving support through this program. If you have a caring heart and a few hours to give, we'd love to hear from you.

About the Visiting Hospice Program: The Visiting Hospice Program aims to create a rewarding experience for both our volunteers and our clients by fostering connection and meaningful support. The program offers opportunities for social companionship, legacy work, activities of interest, respite relief, and more.

Visiting Hospice Volunteers visit their client at a mutually agreed-upon time, wherever the client resides, whether that be a residential home, long-term care facility, hospice 

residence, retirement, or hospital.

To view a video about the program and learn more, please click here.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. The next Visiting Hospice Volunteer onboarding is scheduled for late September 2025.

Kitchen Volunteers: Rotary Hospice is looking for Kitchen Volunteers to help on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 8 am to 11 am. Kitchen Volunteers assist with meal preparation for residents and families, cleaning and maintenance of the kitchen and surrounding area, organizing, and maintaining Public Health standards. Volunteers are required to complete or have an In Good Hands safe food handling certificate. Availability twice a month would be ideal.

Those interested in either of the above opportunities can contact chelsey@rotaryhospice.ca or 519-508-4900 x730 for more details.

No matter your skills or experience, your time and care can bring comfort and connection to those who need it most. Join us and be part of our hospice family.

Handbags for Hospice Tickets Available September 16!

The countdown is on for the 7th annual Handbags for Hospice! Tickets go on sale online on Tuesday, September 16th at 7 pm. We're thrilled to share that to date, we have received 80+ silent auction items, the Paper Purse Wall has over 120 gift cards, and we will be sharing sneak peeks of our Live Auction items soon! Every ticket purchase helps support compassionate end-of-life care at Rotary Hospice.

*Please note: Tickets for Handbags for Hospice will be available for purchase online only. You will not receive a physical ticket.

Wine Wall Donations Needed!

We are gratefully accepting donations for this year's Wine Wall. Bottles of wine valued at $20 or more can be dropped off at Illume Wellness Spa (36 Ontario Street, Stratford) or Rotary Hospice until October 9, 2025. On the night of the event, guests can pick a numbered cork for $20 and take home a surprise bottle of wine. Your donation to our wine wall will help ensure Rotary Hospice continues to make every moment matter.

Fall Community Education Series

As part of our commitment to supporting and informing our community, we're pleased to share information about our upcoming Free Community Education Series this fall at the Stratford Public Library. These sessions are open to all and are designed to provide helpful, practical information about topics we all face.

Wednesday, September 24th at 7 pm: Advance Care Planning

Learn how to start the conversation and make your wishes known. This presentation will be facilitated by Rotary Hospice volunteers who have received Advance Care Planning training.

Wednesday, October 29th at 7 pm: Hospice as an End-of-Life Option

Understand what hospice care offers and how it can support individuals and their loved ones navigating end-of-life journeys. This presentation will be facilitated by Rotary Hospice Registered Social Worker Melissa McManus and Clinical Resource Nurse Stacey Hallahan.

We invite you to join us, bring your questions, and take part in these important conversations. To learn more or register for either presentation, please reach out to sw@rotaryhospice.ca

• Saturday, September 13th: Stratford Lakeside Active Adults Association "Aging With Optimism" Open House, Wellness & Multicultural Fair at the Stratford Rotary Complex
• Saturday, September 13th: Stratford Rotary Dragon Boat Festival
• Wednesday, September 17th at 7 pm: Fall Grief & Bereavement Webinar: Living with Grief
• Wednesday, September 24th at 7 pm: Advance Care Planning Presentation at the Stratford Public Library
• Saturday, September 27th from 12 - 8 pm: Trail of Hope for Hospice at The Auburn Rural Retreat
• Saturday, September 27th from 12 pm onwards: SK8 Jam 4SAM at the Stratford Skate Park
• Thursday, October 16th: Handbags for Hospice at the Best Western Plus Arden Park Hotel
• Wednesday, October 29th at 7 pm: Hospice as an End-of-Life Option Presentation at the Stratford Public Library
• Friday, November 21st at 7 pm: Lights of Love at Rotary Hospice
• Sunday, December 7th: Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol at the Avondale

Wondering How to Access Hospice Care?

Hospice care can begin much earlier than many people realize — even right after a life-limiting diagnosis. Whether someone is interested in connecting with a visiting hospice volunteer or exploring future residential care, early referrals are encouraged and welcomed.

The main way to begin the referral process is through Ontario Health at Home (Southwest). Individuals or their care partners can call directly with their health card number ready. The phone number for Ontario Health at Home Information and Referral line is 310-2222 (no area code required).

Referrals can also come from:

• Family doctors or community nurses
• Hospital care coordinators
• Directly through our hospice team — we’re happy to guide you through the process

We don’t have a traditional waitlist. Instead, we maintain a list of individuals who have indicated hospice is part of their care plan. We stay in touch with them and assess readiness for admission based on their needs and timing. Some individuals come to us earlier in their journey, and that can help ease the transition when the time comes.

We're also supporting more individuals with non-cancer diagnoses as part of our commitment to equitable access. Our team works closely with healthcare providers to ensure timely, appropriate care.

We're here to help - give us a call at 519-508-4900.