A Moment of Comfort and Connection in Palliative Care

When Derek, a patient in Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit, shared how much he missed his horses, his care team found a way to make something extraordinary happen.

With help from his family and hospital staff, Derek was able to spend precious time with his horses surrounded by love, calm, and connection. It was a moment that reflected what palliative care is truly about: honouring what matters most to each person, supporting their comfort and dignity, and creating space for meaningful experiences.

Thanks to community generosity, OTMH’s Palliative Care Unit continues to grow into an even more comforting space for patients and families. Recent donor support is helping enhance eight dedicated palliative rooms with thoughtful touches that bring warmth and peace, fund a nourishment cart for visiting families, and support specialized staff education that strengthens compassionate care.

Derek’s story is just one example of the kindness and collaboration that define palliative care at OTMH. With every act of giving, our community helps make these moments of comfort and connection possible.