Sonja Kill Memorial Hospice, established on January 19, 2006, is located in the northern part of Kathmandu, Gokarna. It serves as a caring place for survivors of trafficking who are affected by various transmitted diseases like HIV AIDS, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis, and others, as well as those who are mentally disturbed due to various challenging circumstances, violence, and abuse in their lives.
The hospice was created to bring peace and dignity to survivors of trafficking and gender violence who are in poor health. It provides complete care, meeting their basic needs like shelter, meals, clothing, and medical attention. The goal is to offer them companionship and affection so they can live their remaining days with dignity and serenity. Moving from Sattighatta, residents now enjoy a beautiful open area of almost 3690 square meters. The hospice’s proximity to excellent emergency hospital care and skilled medical professionals in Kathmandu ensures an upgrade in the quality of care. Modern facilities include 24-hour medical support, a balanced diet, and anti-retroviral treatment with regular viral load and CD4 cell testing.
There are a total of 30 patients residing in the Hospice. Among these 9 are PLWHA, whereas 21 patients receive psychotic care diseases living at present in the Hospice.
Beyond medical care, residents engage in vocational handicraft classes, growing seasonal vegetables for their consumption. Recreational activities like singing, dancing, painting, sports, yoga, and meditation are regular occurrences. Exposure visits help reduce stress, and psychosocial counseling has led to improvements in self-esteem and increased self-dependence among the women in the hospice.
Special Celebrations & Visits at the Hospice:
- January 11: Dr. Winfred Kill, one of the major donors to Maiti Nepal and his family visited the hospice, distributing sweets and lunch boxes.
- January 15: Maghe Sankranti was celebrated with Teel Ladoos, Chaku, Ghee, and sweet potatoes.
- January 19: Hospice’s Annual Day featured a cultural program by hospice women, followed by a feast.
- March 17: Holi was celebrated with colors and festive food.
- May 25: Hospice women and staff planted pumpkins and vegetables.
- July 30: Shrawan 15 was marked with rice pudding (Khir).
- August 19: Rakshya Bandhan was celebrated with mixed bean soup.
- September 6: Women at the hospice celebrated Teej.
- October 9: Shelter staff visited and distributed Dashain clothes.
- October 12: Hospice women received blessings and tika for Vijaya Dashami.
- October 31: Deepawali was celebrated with lights and joy.
- November 11: Mr. Pedro Sanchez Guerra visited and distributed winter clothes to hospice women and girls.
- December 1: Hospice staff and Dijju celebrated World AIDS Day with a cultural program and a special meal.