Pabalelong Hospice in Botswana welcomed former patients and their families back for a special gathering on Sept. 17, 2026.
The gathering has long been an important occasion for hospice staff and for patients who have returned home after receiving care. Held annually or every other year, the event offers a chance to reconnect, share experiences and celebrate the progress former patients have made.
Staff began preparing about a month in advance, contacting former patients who might be able to attend. While about 40 patients were expected, 13 patients and five relatives were able to take part.
The day included prayer and Scripture, personal testimonies, games and entertainment led by staff. Patients shared stories about their lives since leaving the hospice and spent time reconnecting with those who had cared for them.
Board member Tebogo Magakwa joined the gathering and thanked the staff for their work. He also encouraged former patients to share their experiences with others who may need hospice care, noting that they understand firsthand the care offered at Pabalelong.
Guests received water, snacks and drinks when they arrived, followed later by a meal and dessert prepared by staff. Former patients also received gifts and additional food to take home.
For staff, one of the most encouraging parts of the gathering was seeing how much some former patients had improved. Several who had left the hospice using wheelchairs or walking frames were now able to walk again. Some have also returned to work or found other ways to support themselves.
The gathering offered patients, families and staff time to celebrate those steps forward while renewing relationships formed during times of illness and recovery.
For Pabalelong Hospice, the day was also a reminder of the relationships that continue long after a patient returns home.
“Pabalelong” means “place of love and care.” The hospice provides inpatient palliative care as well as home based care, counseling, physiotherapy, spiritual care and support for families. It originally served many people living with HIV and AIDS and has also cared for people with cancer and other serious illnesses.