Emily’s House: Five Year Anniversary
A word from our CEO: Rauni Salminen, CEO and Founder of Emily's House and CEO of Philip Aziz Centre (PAC)
“This July, Emily’s House celebrates five years of operations and being host to over 1,739 total admissions since opening our doors. Families have received care and support at the most critical and difficult time of their lives. The feedback we have received, along with the many who have attended our memorial services, and those who have found ways to give back and remember, are a testimony to the critical importance of Emily’s House.
What began as a vision in my heart, encouraged by the families we supported through our visiting hospice programs, has grown into a compassionate and welcoming home for families, caring for children with complex, life-threatening illnesses. Thank you to our tireless, passionate and committed team of staff and volunteers at Emily’s House who have gained a reputation as experts in paediatric palliative care. And, thank you also to our PAC team who have expanded programs to help provide support for Emily’s House families.
The list of all the people who made Emily’s House possible is much too exhaustive to share. But each person and their unique and valuable contribution continue to be treasured greatly. I must also acknowledge our Board of Directors who have supported and believed in building Emily’s House. Also to our key partners, SickKids, the Ministry of Health our Local Health Network (TCLHIN), Hospice Palliative Care Ontario and all our generous donors, thank you for supporting our beginnings and our growth. It takes a village’ they say, and it was a ‘village’ of visionary, courageous people who came alongside to make Emily’s House a reality.”
A word from our Medical Director: Dr. Adam Rapoport, Medical Director, Emily’s House and Paediatric Advanced Care Team, SickKids Hospital
“It’s hard to believe that it’s been five years since we opened our doors at Emily’s House. On one hand, I wonder where the time has gone. It seems like only yesterday that we were preparing for our first admissions. But on the other hand, I can’t remember how we functioned before Emily’s House, and I know for certain that many families feel the same way. While the physical house itself is a thing of beauty, what really makes it special is our wonderful staff. It’s been an honour to work with such compassionate and dedicated people and to be a part of this wonderful organization. Looking forward to the next five years of continued success and further growth!”
