Dove Hospice & Wellness is a unique and independent hospice caring for those with an advanced disease and also for those on a curative path, from the point of diagnosis of life-threatening illness.
With a strong focus on holistic wellness, Dove also cares for whānau, carers and those who are bereaved. The organisation recently added ‘Wellness’ to its name to better describe the diverse range of services it provides to the Auckland community.
Dove offers a range of wellness programmes from their day facility, Dove House, located in Glendowie. These programmes are designed to complement the more traditional healthcare patients may be receiving, and to support their wellness through their journey. Dove believes that healing is a holistic process that involves the whole person – body, mind, and spirit.
On 18 May Dove’s Living with Bereavement group will be starting up again. At Dove they understand that the grieving process is not an easy one. Grief can be a very difficult journey to navigate, but it’s not one that you have to go through alone. That’s where Dove comes in. The loss of a loved one can be overwhelming, and the process of moving forward can seem daunting. Dove offers a Living with Bereavement group led by members of the Dove clinical team who understand the unique challenges of grief and are committed to helping people find the path forward in a safe and supportive environment for healing.
“The Living with Bereavement sessions have helped to uplift me during a very difficult and emotionally stressful time. The gentle, calm atmosphere is very soothing and there is a feeling of freedom to talk and share without having to explain anything or apologise for being an emotional basket case. Everyone in the group understands as they have also lost a significant other.”
Dove’s Living with Bereavement group is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one and they are welcome to attend for up to two years after bereavement. The opportunity for new people to join the group is always open. All Dove’s support groups provide a space to share feelings, share coping strategies, and connect with others who are going through a similar experience.
The team at Dove House also offer oncology massage, reflexology, skin and nail therapies, reiki (energy healing), lymphoedema management, scar tissue management, physiotherapy, shiatsu, medical acupuncture, psychotherapy, counselling, nursing support, and a range of support groups and workshops. Many of these services are offered face-to-face and remotely. They are designed to help people manage stress, improve their physical health, and cultivate a sense of peace, wellbeing, and connection.
An outstanding aspect of the services delivered by Dove is that they are provided at no charge to their clients. Dove’s operating costs are generously met by their local community of donors, volunteers, and their renowned Dove Hospice Shops which turn preloved goods into first class hospice care. By offering their clients the support and tools for healing, Dove’s care can help people move to a place of hope and renewal.
“The service that Dove House provides is absolutely amazing. When I look back at when I was first told to call Dove House, I was very hesitant as it felt like I had so many appointments to fit in and thought ’not another one’. But now I am so grateful to have been able to experience this wonderful support that Dove offers; and I can’t speak highly enough of the team.”
“At Dove, we understand that each person’s journey is unique. That’s why we offer personalised care that is tailored to meet the individual needs of the person and their whānau. Whether you’re looking for support and care on your own unique wellness journey, or perhaps you’ve been affected by a loved one who has passed due to a life-threatening illness, Dove is here to help,” says Orla O’Riordan, Dove nurse.
Dove House has been described as a haven away from the challenging but necessary medical procedures and treatments.
Dove believes that everyone deserves to find a path forward, including after loss of a loved one, and they’re here to help you find yours. Dove House has been described as a haven away from the challenging but necessary medical procedures and treatments. If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, or living with a life-threatening illness, we encourage you to reach out to Dove Hospice & Wellness today.
Dove’s Living with Bereavement group is an ongoing fortnightly group. Held on a Thursday, located at Dove House, the group runs from 10.30am – 11.45am. For more information or to book your place please call 09 575 4555.
