Norfolk Haldimand hospice receives $100,000 donation

The family of the late Debra VandenBussche Sinnesael - Kady Sumner, Ken Sinnesael and Kendra Sinnesael - recently donated $100,000 in Debra’s name to the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice. 

Chris Abbott

Editor

The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice recently announced a generous $100,000 donation from Ken Sinnesael and his daughters, Kady Sumner and Kendra Sinnesael, in memory of their late wife and mother, Debra Vanden Bussche Sinnesael.

This heartfelt contribution reflects the family's deep commitment to ensuring that individuals in Norfolk County have access to compassionate end-of-life care.

Debra, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, was known for her deep love of nature and her thoughtful, giving spirit. As a passionate gardener, she found joy in tending to her flowers, often climbing into ditches to pick wild blooms and always keeping a pair of scissors in her car just in case. Her favourite flowers were gladiolus, and she lovingly passed down plants to her children, ensuring that her green thumb and love for gardening would live on in their own gardens.

Beyond her passion for nature, Debra was a devoted grandmother to five grandchildren, ranging in age from three to 12. She had an incredible memory for small details, always remembering her loved ones' preferences and finding the perfect gifts, especially during the holidays. Her thoughtfulness and generosity were defining traits, and her legacy of love continues to inspire those who knew her.

Difficult Cancer Journey

Debra battled Stage 4 lung cancer for over two years, facing her illness with strength and determination. She underwent more treatments than initially expected, always trying to maintain normalcy for her family despite the challenges. Pain management became increasingly difficult, and the family struggled to find the hospice support they desperately needed.

Unfortunately, due to catchment area restrictions and limited availability, Debra was unable to spend her final days in a hospice. Instead, she spent her last 12 days in a hospital in Hamilton, an environment that, while providing necessary medical care, lacked the home-like comfort she longed for. The family also experienced challenges with hospital staffing, with inconsistent nursing support and limited access to palliative care specialists. Due to it being a hospital, she was unable to spend her last days with her beloved family pets Chevy and Nova.

Debra had expressed that while she did not want to pass away at home, she wished for a peaceful, home-like setting where she could be surrounded by love and dignity. The absence of such a facility in Norfolk County reinforced her family's belief in the critical need for a local hospice.

A Family’s Mission

Following their experience, Ken, Kady, and Kendra became strong advocates for hospice care in Norfolk County. Their $100,000 donation to the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice is a testament to their belief in the importance of end-of-life dignity and comfort.

“We want other families to have the support we didn’t,” said Ken. “A hospice is needed so badly in this community. People tell me they should be donating to the hospital, but that’s 15 years down the road. I want to see the hospice built, and who knows - I may even need it someday.”

Kady and Kendra, both deeply connected to their mother’s legacy, hope that the donation will enhance the hospice’s ability to create comforting spaces, such as a serene garden or sitting area, where patients and their loved ones can find peace and solace. In spired by Debra’s lifelong love of gardening, they envision an environment where families can gather, reflect, and find moments of calm amidst their grief.

Ken is also considering launching his own charity to continue supporting hospice care initiatives, ensuring that this vital service remains a priority in the community. His dedication to the cause reflects not only his commitment to honouring Debra’s memory but also his desire to create a lasting impact for others facing similar challenges.

Debra’s Legacy

The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice extends its deepest gratitude to the Sinnesael family for their extraordinary generosity. This contribution will help create a space where patients can experience the dignity, comfort, and peace they deserve in their final days.

For more information about how you can support the hospice, visit hospice website (norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca) or contact the team directly (519-410-0881 or email info@norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca).