He has set up ‘Goulburn Ailsa’s Medication Fund’ with assistance from the nurses of Goulburn Community Health’s Palliative Care unit.

As part of National Palliative Care Week from May 24-30, the fund was established in response to the cost of medications incurred by Mr and Mrs Roberts, in particular during the last weeks of Ailsa’s life. Ailsa Roberts died peacefully in her home on April 20 this year from metastatic ovarian cancer, with her family by her side and supported by the Goulburn Palliative Care Multidisciplinary Team.

In recognition of the financial support received for medications during the terminal phase of Ailsa’s life, Mr Roberts requested that in lieu of flowers at Ailsa’s funeral, money be donated to Goulburn Palliative Care under the premise that a medication fund be established in the future.

“We managed to raise $2,060 to give to Palliative Care from Ailsa’s funeral to start off the fund,” Mr Roberts said.

“Goulburn Mazda also pitched in with another $200. Also, the Goulburn Dressage Club are holding a fundraising day at their next meet on Saturday June 6. I hope they raise a good amount at this fundraiser.”

Goulburn Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner Theresa Pot explained the nature of medication for someone who is receiving palliative care.

“In the terminal phase of a life limiting illness, swallowing medications can be difficult,” she said.

“Medications for managing symptoms such as pain are delivered using a cannula that is inserted just below the skin’s surface and medications are safely delivered. The cost of these medications can add to the financial burden of some patients and their families.”

Ailsa’s Medication Fund will be accessed following an assessment of the applicant by the Social Welfare Officer or social worker who is a part of the Palliative Care Team.

Donations to the fund can be made via Goulburn Community Health or Goulburn Base Hospital. It is the hope of Mr Roberts and family that this fund will continue to develop and provide ongoing support to the community.

In keeping with the theme of Palliative Care Week ‘Dying to Talk-talking about dying won’t kill you’, the Goulburn Community Consultation Group are holding two community forums on June 3 at the Goulburn Workers Club.

These will provide the Goulburn community with the opportunity to learn about advance care planning and the importance of communicating to your family about what your wishes are regarding your care, should you not be able to speak for yourself. Presenters at the forum are from the medical and legal professions as well as those who have their own personal stories to tell about the importance of communication in regards to death and dying, the recording of wishes and how we would like to spend our last days of life.