Joseph Cunningham, Gleaner Writer 
Burnett
"Eyes hath not seen, nor ears heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that trust Him."
1 Corinthians 2: 9
THESE ARE words of consolation that nurse Daphnelyn Burnett gives to cancer patients at the Consie Walters Cancer Care Hospice, part of Kingston's St. Joseph's Hospital.
The centre is a voluntary non-profit organisation with a mission to be Concerned, Assist, Rehabilitate and Educate (CARE) cancer victims.
Nurse Burnett is an oncologist, a nurse who specialises in caring for cancer patients. Many cancer patients, she said, have spent months and in some cases years, visiting doctors and hospitals, yet are still ignorant of their diagnosis.
So she said, "Cancer patients have a great fear of the unknown (death) because of how fierce this disease is. So I make myself available, especially for those for whom death is inevitable, to comfort and to help them maintain their independence and dignity, on their journey home. I provide physical and spiritual help in a practical way."
Nurse Burnett has served at the hospice for over 12 years, and has seen many different types of cancer ailments.
"There are types of cancer symptoms that kill immediately," she said, but "what we cannot cure, we control".
THROUGH LOVE OF GOD
The hospice has accommodation for just six patients at a time and seeks financial sponsorship for patients unable to pay for their treatment.
"I have seen many gruesome cancer symptoms," she said, "like the cancer of the trachea which protrudes through the mouth in a form resembling a cauliflower. And then there is throat cancer, that forces its way through the back of the head."
Asked by Volunteer Today how she remains committed to her work, Nurse Burnett confesses she does not make a fortune, but her love for God's people keeps her committed.
She is also part of Cancer Care's bereavement follow-up team, which helps mourners following a cancer fatality.
Consie Walters
Cancer Care
How you can volunteer to the Consie Walters Cancer Care Hospice?
You can offer your vehicle to transport a patient for treatment
Funds are needed to maintain and expand services.
If you know someone who needs this facility, please contact the centre at telephone: 928-1325
