Abbotsford Hospice Society is pleased to welcome Yoko Gifford to our staff as Palliative Services Manager.
New to Abbotsford, Yoko has recently relocated from southern California. She has lived and worked in four different
countries, where she was exposed to different cultures and belief systems. Her educational background includes
child development and hospitality management. Focusing on children and their families Yoko completed an internship
in Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles, where she worked closely with children in oncology/hema- tology unit. Yoko continues
her palliative care education to enhance her personal and professional development. During her studies at Califor- nia
State University, North- ridge, Yoko took courses in Intercultural Communications and Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and
Culture in Development as part of her degree. Yoko has also studied American Sign Language (ASL) for two years
and has experience working with children who are deaf. Having worked for Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line
in the past, Yoko has also gained interesting work experience where she provided excellent guest service and resolved
challen- ging situations with people from all around the world.
Please join us in welcoming this energetic young woman to our hospice team!
Abbotsford Hospice Palliative Services
Free Services for PALLIATIVE CLIENTS / FAMILIES / CAREGIVERS
There is no charge for any of our support groups, but participants MUST REGISTER — please call Kelly at 604.852.2456, or
email info@abbotsfordhospice.org.
Anticipatory Grief Group
This ongoing support group for adults is designed to address the issues associated with the expected death of a family member or
friend.
One to One Support for Adults, Teens and Children
Peer support or phone counselling sessions with a registered clinical counsellor for adults and adolescents who are
experiencing anticipatory grief.
Palliative Support Group
Living with a Terminal Illness? Take advantage of the power of group discussion and mutual support in a safe and welcoming
environment. Spend time with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. Facilitated by a registered clinical counsellor.
Palliative Wellness Day
Wellness Day for Abbotsford or Mission residents aged 18+ who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting condition. Services
offered include: Pet therapy, lunch and massage therapy. Share your wisdom, meet new friends. Clients may self-refer or
may be referred by friends, family or a medical professional.
In Home Visitation
Trained Abbotsford Hospice volunteers will visit with palliative clients in their homes, providing respite for caregivers
and companionship for adults and teens living with a terminal condition.
Facility Visitation
Trained AHS volunteers regularly visit at MSA Hospital (continuing at the soon to be opened Abbotsford Hospital), area
Care Homes and the Christine Morrison Hospice residence in Mission, B.C. With the opening of the new hospital specially
trained AHS volunteers will also visit patients and families in the Tertiary Palliative Care Unit and Oncology.
Caregiver Support Group
For family members and friends who are caring for a loved one diagnosed with a terminal illness.
