Did you know that in the United States, about 500,000 live with the challenge of a life-threatening condition? In Arizona alone that equates to between 3,500 and 5,000 children. Yet less than between 1% - 10% of children who need pediatric palliative care or end-of-life care receive it (Toce & Collins, 2003; Himelstein, Hilden, Boldt; Weissman, 2004).
While raising awareness for Ryan House at the Arizona Chapter of The American Academy of Pediatrics' conference last weekend, Holly heard many pediatricians and nurse practitioners comment, "Wow, this is so needed." For attendees from out-of-state, the representative was able to share information about other pediatric palliative care homes and centers in the United States: George Mark Children's House in San Leandro (Oakland), CA; Sarah House in Cincinnati, OH; Angels’ Place in Greater New Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, LA; and Circle of Life Children’s Center in Newark, NJ.
We’re pleased to share that Ryan House construction is progressing smoothly and the House will welcome its first families for scheduled, short term respite and quality-of-life stays in the spring of 2010. Some say that in Arizona “Hope and Help have a New Home…” Yes, it is needed!
