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Posted: Tuesday, June 26th, 2012 8:33 AM HST

Hospice of Hilo opens new facility

By Ken Hupp - 67AM KPUA News

Hospice of Hilo’s long awaited Pohai Malama Care Center on Kapi`olani Street is now open. The 14-thousand square foot home-like facility officially opened its doors following ceremonies on Friday that drew a large crowd of dignitaries and administrators who delivered remarks that got emotional at times. Administrator Brenda Ho said the new home will allow patients to live out their remaining days with dignity. “The people of this island deserve the best,” Ho said. “We deserve to be able to take care of our family members in that final journey, just like you would get anywhere else.” The sorely needed inpatient home is the first of its kind on the neighbor islands and will provide hospice care to patients of all ages, including children. Key features include 12 patient bedrooms, dining, meditation, keiki and family rooms, a palliative care center, a spa and a training center. For Mayor Billy Kenoi, it was a struggle to keep his emotions in check. “For all you guys at Hospice of Hilo, thanks huh, you guys. Thanks for my dad over a decade ago, thanks for everybody else’s mom and dad, grandma and grandpa and auntie and uncle and children even,” Kenoi said. “God bless all of you for your love and aloha in making Hawai`i and Hilo a special place.” Hopice of Hilo has served Hawai`i Island from Laupahoehoe to South Point for more than 25 years.