Aurora House, a home for the dying led by a nonprofit group of qualified nursing staff and trained volunteers, will soon become a reality. The two-bed facility located at 2495 South Union Street in Spencerport will provide optimal end of life care to persons with a terminal prognosis. Construction will be completed by the end of April and the home is scheduled to open later this year. Residents who have been medically determined to be in their final three months of life will be referred by a hospice agency to Aurora House.
Donations are key to the success of this not-for-profit organization which seeks to provide services at no cost to residents. Board President Sandie Ville noted, “Every single day I am amazed by the willingness of people to give of themselves so freely. A family that lost a mom in recent months to cancer would like us to accept a bedroom set for the family suite, another person offers up a beautiful oriental rug, a light, door hardware shows up on my doorstep, and the list goes on. The generosity of the building community has been tremendous as well.” The Spencerport community, led by area businesses and local churches, has embraced the project. Over 50 volunteers have already signed up as caregivers, helping to ensure round the clock care for residents and allowing family members some respite while knowing that their loved one is cared for. Still more are needed, as the board’s goal is to have over 100 volunteers signed up prior to accepting the home’s first resident. A willingness to give and a welcoming heart are all that is required—training and support will be provided.
Plans are underway for a very special fundraising event to be held on Friday, April 30 at The Plantation Party House in Spencerport. “All Aboard a Starry Night,” the third annual Aurora House benefit dinner, will begin with a cash bar and appetizers at 6:30, followed by dinner, incredible desserts, a silent auction, and raffles for area boat trips. Sunshine Jam with Julie Hall will provide entertainment on steel drums, Company B will perform during dinner, and afterward DJ Fred Cardella will spin dance tunes. Tickets are $50 when purchased by March 31 and $60 after that date. Call Ro at 392-9198 to purchase tickets for this event, or visit www.aurorahousewmc.com. Final deadline for reservations is April 23.
Additional information about Aurora House is available online, including monthly newsletters, volunteer opportunities, photos, and upcoming events. Should you have any questions, please call (585) 313-9553.
