CORRECTION: It was previously stated that Blaine McLeod's wife entered the hospice care program during the final days of her life, but -- owing to a miscommunication at the time -- it was in fact his wife's father, Les Leskewich, who received end-of-life hospice care. Blaine McLeod and his wife both remain in good health. We apologize for this error and have reached out to McLeod to confirm the revised information is correct and accurate.
The Moose Jaw Events Centre was animated late April 12 as the Moose Jaw Warriors entered the first game of round two in the WHL playoffs and, simultaneously, Heartland Hospice announced its fundraising campaign has now reached $809,000 out of a $1 million target during the Spurs and Stilettos Cabaret.
The cabaret was held in the adjacent Moose Jaw Curling Centre, and doors opened with a packed room enjoying the celebration of Heartland Hospices’ 10-year anniversary.
Angela Sereda, chair of Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw, had a vision to create the non-profit’s that was found back in November 2014 after fighting for a local hospice program. This vision was inspired by the journey of Arlene Kolosky, when in 2013 recognized the need for such a program in Moose Jaw. The night’s cabaret was simply the latest step in this ongoing effort to provide dignity during an individual’s final years.
“Vision without action is merely a dream,” she declared.
The Spurs and Stilettos cabaret helped raise funds for Heartland Hospices’ Capital Campaign project. Once the campaign’s goal of $1 million has been raised, the local non-profit will be well on the way to completing the new hospice care expansion at Pioneer Lodge.
The proposed wing will include a fully furnished family room complete with library resources and family-friendly activities, a sacred space, an expansion of the existing Serenity Garden, and three new fully furnished and decorated hospice palliative care bedrooms.
All residents at Pioneer Lodge will benefit in some way from the new project. For residents in the hospice care program itself, this expansion will make their end-of-life journey as comfortable and dignified as possible.
Following the meal, Sereda delivered an introductory address to the audience.
In a show of appreciation for the agricultural community – who she said raised $500,000 of the campaign’s pre-event $780,000 total – the cabaret saw a Western-style theme including a live auction by Scott Johnstone from Johnstone Auction Mart, Western decor, and the Johner Brothers were invited to provide live country music entertainment.
“We wouldn’t be here without the support of our community, and we truly say thank you,” Sereda announced in her address.
Following Sereda’s introduction, a representative of the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) delivered a few remarks.
“The anticipation of bringing this dream to life is incredibly exciting,” she announced. “(The SHA) recognizes the incredible role of our community partners including Heartland Hospice,” adding that the new project is an accessible, co-ordinated, and timely effort for the community.
Blaine McLeod, the MLA for Lumsden-Morse, then spoke on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan.
For McLeod, the hospice care project carries personal significance. His wife's father, Les Leskewich, entered hospice care during the final days of his life, and the experience provided a dignified and respectful atmosphere that helped himself and his family navigate this challenging time.
“We have wonderful memories (of his last days compared to an environment without a hospice care facility),” he said. “I will never forget – never.
“On behalf of the provincial government, thank you. We wish you great success,” he concluded.
Following the night’s programming, the stage lit up to introduce the Johner Brothers for a live cabaret featuring a number of country songs and couples kicked off their boots to hit the dance floor until midnight.
“We cannot change the outcome, but we can change the journey,” quoted Heartland Hospices’ itinerary leaflet in reflection of the night’s spirit.
To donate to Heartland Hospice in support of its ongoing hospice care project or to learn more, visit HeartlandHospiceMJ.ca.
