The opening of the West Island Palliative care Residence in October 2002 marked the realization of a dream and ambitious project undertaken by Teresa Dellar and Russell Williams in the fall of 1998. It is a nine-bed residence where terminally ill patients can spend their final days in comfort and dignity in a warm, home-like environment, close to their family, and in their community.

The opening was the culmination of the hard work of many dedicated individuals and volunteers, and also included the cooperation and support from governments at all levels, institutions, companies and organizations in the community. It involved the planning and achievement of many milestones such as procurement of land, construction, furnishing, staffing, and the development of a close affiliation with Lakeshore General Hospital.

Our vision as a leader in palliative care is to be at the forefront of providing superior care within the community health care network, to serve as a role model and resource for other communities wishing to organize a freestanding palliative care residence, and to promote education not only to health care professionals but also to the community as a way of increasing awareness and promoting understanding about the needs of terminally ill patients and their family.

At the West Island Palliative Care Residence we value, recognize and respect the individuality and autonomy of each person.  We strive to address the complex needs, hopes, fears, suffering and expectations of each patient, while supporting their dignity and optimizing their quality of life through relief of suffering.