A recent study looked at the prevalence rates of death over the past 20 years and concluded there are likely 1300-1400 children in BC who are currently living with life threatening conditions.

Most researchers suggest that at least 50% of the total population can benefit from palliative care services; therefore there is an urgent need to provide care, expertise, and services for up to 450 additional BC families.

The study also pointed to the Fraser region as a critical area in need of immediate and future services enhancement.

• Currently 46% of Canuck Place families live in the Fraser Health Region.

• Estimates suggest that the pediatric palliative care population in the Fraser Health region will surpass 380 in 2010 and will reach 410 by 2020.
• Future projections also suggest that this region will be home to nearly half of all children living in BC.

Today, there are approximately 222 children on the Canuck Place program, a number estimated to represent only about 20-25% of the total population of children living with life-threatening illness.   In addition, there are approximately 178 bereaved families on our program.

The Vancouver Hospice currently has 9 beds and 4 family suites and operates at full capacity. The heritage status of the building prohibits the option of further expansion of this location.

Our vision is to see that all children with life-threatening illnesses and their families have access to high-quality pediatric palliative care; and to that end, we are committed to provide leadership and work in partnership with community organizations and regional health authorities throughout the province to build local capacity.