Introduction:

1. What is your name?

Landi Bezuidenhout

2. Which hospice do you work for?

Nelspruit Hospice

3. What do you do there?

CEO and NSM: Management of the Organisation and delivering HBC

4. How long have you been there?

Two years

In-depth:

1. Why did you decide to focus on palliative care?

It has been my passion since I started to work at ACTS Clinic, an NGO focusing on HIV/AIDS Care; about 15 years ago.

2. What gives you the greatest fulfilment?

If I can help a patient to have less pain and suffering it gives me joy.

3. What do you find the most challenging?

That doctors refer patients so late. We could have done much more if we had a longer journey with patients.

4. What do you think people find the most challenging about a life-threatening diagnosis?

The acceptance of the finality of a life-threatening diagnosis; and the worry if they and their family will be able to cope.

5. What do you think that you personally bring to your job that reflects who you are as a person?

Compassion and empathy.

6. How do you take care of your own health and balance?

Listen to music, praying and reading.

7. What is your advice to anyone else wishing to join your profession?

Make sure that you understand that this profession is demanding; not many people are able to carry the load for a long time.

8. What is your advice to anyone given a life-threatening diagnosis?

Find out what are your treatment goals and what are all the options available to you and your family. Do not be afraid to ask for assistance when you need it.

9. What is your advice to the loved ones of anyone who is given a life-threatening diagnosis?

Get as much information about the disease and treatment programme and all the resources available to you.

10. How do your loved ones feel about the work that you do?

My husband tolerates my long hours because he knows how much I care about my patients. My children are less accommodating – they urge me to have more time off for myself and to spend with them.

11. What do you like the most about the hospice that you work with?

It is small and well supported by the community.

12. Do you have a “motto” that you tend to live by that you would like to share?

If it is worth doing, do it well the first time.