The general public is unfamiliar with end-of-life care terms. This is among the findings of a study published in the Journal of Medical Ethics and funded by the Irish Hospice Foundation.

The authors (J. McCarthy/J.Weafer/M.Loughrey) say the study paints a picture of a general public that is not very comfortable with or informed about the processes of dying and death. Great sensitivity is required of health professionals who must negotiate the timing and the context of breaking bad news with patients and families.

Warmest congratulations to all our cycling supporters who participated in either or both of our recent Kingspan/IHF Cycle Challenges:  Dublin-Paris (18th-23rd July) and Paris-Geneva (24th-29th July).

IHF Head of Fundraising, Tim O'Dea, recently received a cheque for nearly €22,000 from Cormac Leonard, Commercial Director, John Hinde Ltd, representing the proceeds of IHF/John Hinde Christmas cards for 2009.

The IHF will provide the funding for the initial period of the appointment of Ireland's first Paediatric Palliative Care Consultant and five of the eight outreach nurses specified under the new policy.  Click  PR - Children's policy to download a press release.

The draw to select the winners in our Spring 2010 raffle took place in our offices on Wed. 9th June, in the presence of our auditors and a representative of An Garda Siochana. We are delighted to announce the winners, as follows:

Matty Ryan, from Thurles, Co. Tipperary, sadly passed away on Sunday, 24th January, following an illness which he bore with courage and dignity. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and particularly by all his friends in the hospice movement.