Our Story
The story of Oak Ridges Hospice is one of dedication and passion. This initiative is being led by a diverse and committed group of individuals who share in the belief of the importance of high quality palliative care and support to those members of our community facing the unique challenges encountered towards end-of-life.
A decade ago, Port Perry physician, Dr. Steven Russell, recognized a pressing need in the community for patients with life-threatening illnesses to be provided with an alternative to spending their final days in hospital or at home. Dr. Russell called together a group of local citizens and healthcare advocates to investigate the possibility of bringing a residential hospice facility to Uxbridge and Port Perry. Together they formed the North Durham Residential Hospice Committee (NDRHC) and worked collaboratively with Durham Hospice from 2008-2013 on this special initiative. Despite their commitment and enthusiasm, their plans were put on hold due to the challenges of raising sufficient capital and operating funds.
Thankfully, in 2015, two local philanthropists, Mr. Kevin Morgan and Mr. Dave Sidhu, became aware of the need for a Residential Hospice in Durham Region and together they formed The Morgan & Sidhu Family Hospice Ltd., jointly pledging $2 million dollars as a generous and foundational gift.
In late 2015, the North Durham Residential Hospice Committee partnered with The Morgan & Sidhu Family Hospice organization and through our collaborative spirit, we have rapidly gained momentum towards accomplishing our shared vision.
In 2016, a new Board of Directors was formed and our organization was granted charitable status. Shortly thereafter, we rebranded as Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham Ltd and our volunteer team has since grown to include community members with knowledge and experience in the fields of primary and palliative care, healthcare administration, residential hospice operations, business management, finance and community relations.
Our board has worked diligently with the Central East Local Health Integration Network (CE LHIN) to gain allocation for operational funding through the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care (MOHLTC). In early 2017, we were delighted to receive confirmation of funding for a 5 bed hospice to be located in North Durham.
We are thrilled to announce that we have secured property in Port Perry on which to build our hospice facility, and are now embarking on the planning and design phase of our project.
