Philanthropist Donates $1 Million to San Diego Hospice

Local businessman and philanthropist Conrad Prebys donated $1 million to San Diego Hospice and Institute for Palliative Medicine to support services for seriously ill adults and children, the nonprofit agency has announced.

The gift will help the organization meet the needs of the growing numbers of patients who cannot afford end-of-life care, according to hospice officials.

“I am humbled and amazed by the enormous generosity and compassion of and his support of our organization,” said Kathleen Pacurar, president and CEO of the hospice. “Community members in need of San Diego Hospice services will have access to them regardless of one's ability to pay for hospice care.”

In November 2009, Prebys made an initial $1.5 million gift to establish the Conrad T. Prebys Fund For Charitable Care.

The hospice cares for more than 1,000 seriously ill adults and children each day throughout the county. Care is provided at home or wherever the patient resides.

In the 35-year history of the nonprofit organization, it has never turned a hospice-eligible patient away because of his or her inability to pay, according to agency officials. It is the oldest and largest hospice-care provider in the county.

“I am truly honored to support one of the finest organizations in San Diego County, which is San Diego Hospice,” Prebys said. “The critical care that (it) provides is awe-inspiring, and I am glad to support such a vital mission.”

– City News Service