On behalf of all the staff and volunteers of Dover Park Hospice, I send my sincere appreciation to Mr Tay Kwee Kheng for the gratitude expressed to Dover Park Hospice (Best end-of-life care for late mother; June 23).

The instances mentioned that demonstrate the kindness and sincerity of our staff, especially our nurses, towards the patients, are very much appreciated.

We are always proud to hear the praises sung by patients and their loved ones because these bouquets mean a great deal to those who are working very conscientiously, often under great pressure.

Unlike the hurly-burly of acute-care hospitals, those who have visited hospices will realise that looking after "end of life" patients requires a very different approach.

Patients in these circumstances also have different expectations and it often requires special qualities to perform the duties of a hospice nurse.

Likewise, even our volunteers are specially trained in order that they can come in direct contact with our patients and their families.

Dover Park Hospice has no fewer than 18 volunteer groups which work tirelessly to contribute to the comfort and happiness of all our patients as well as their caregivers.

This year marks our 25th year of operation, so we are justifiably very proud that Dover Park Hospice has achieved a very high standard of palliative care.

It is regarded as one of the leading secular hospices. It is also my personal hope that Dover Park Hospice will become a leading centre of reference for hospice care not only in Singapore but also in this region.

We have much to offer the community on end-of-life care. The public can visit us and be surprised to see how our staff and volunteers show that every moment counts, and see for themselves that it is not all about dying because we strive to help our patients and their families to live every moment of their lives.

Our mission statement is "to provide comfort, relief of symptoms and palliative care to patients with advanced disease, regardless of age, race or religion, and to support the grieving families".

Jerry K. T. Lim (Dr)

Co-founder and past chairman

Honorary Council Member

Dover Park Hospice