Hog Jog funds will help develop a serenity garden at hospice
Amanda Modaragamage, Local Journalism Initiative: Stratford Times photo
The 2024 Hog Jog, scheduled for June 19 at the Rotary Complex, will benefit the Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation.by helping to develop a serenity garden on Greenwood Drive on the west side of the property.
The garden will provide a peaceful, contemplative respite for residents and their families, the staff and volunteers, and the broader community.
“The serenity garden is meant to be a calming space that can be enjoyed by hospice residents, families, staff, volunteers and members of the local community,” said Lucie Stuart, director of fund development and stewardship at Rotary Hospice. “It will provide a peaceful outdoor area where people can find solace during difficult times or just take a break.
The garden is being designed to be accessible and welcoming to all.” Since 2005, the Ontario Pork Industry Council (OPIC) has organized the annual Hog Jog to celebrate the pork industry’s people and products while giving back to local community organizations.
Over the last 16 years, Hog Jog has raised over $583,000 for 16 worthy, local causes. More than 400 runners have participated in the 3.5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and Weaner Run events, and enjoyed a delicious pork meal after the race.
A media release from the Ontario Pork Industry Council notes the Hog Jog’s continuing success comes from the enthusiastic participation of runners and walkers, sponsors, neighbourhood and industry cheerleaders, and the many volunteers participating each year. Opened in the summer of 2019 following a successful capital campaign, Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth offers 24-hour palliative care 365 days a year in a homelike setting for those with a life-limiting illness and their loved ones – all at no cost to the individual.
“Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth provides compassionate end-of-life care to residents and their families from across our community,” said Stuart. “By connecting with events like the Hog Jog run, we aim to raise awareness about the important work done at the hospice and give back to the community that has supported us for so many years.”
To date, 343 individuals have called Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth their final home. In addition to the clinical-care team comprising RNs, RPNs and PSWs, Rotary Hospice is grateful to have a roster of more than 140 trained volunteers who support not only the activities and individuals in hospice but also those who choose to spend their final days at their home of choice. To register or for further information about Hog Jog 2024 including a course map, pledge forms and sponsorship and volunteering opportunities, visit www.hogjog.ca.
The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the federal government
