Neediest psychiatric inpatients of Burnaby Hospital received a Traditional Christmas Lunch
Burnaby.- For the second year Milani Plumbing Drainage & Heating celebrated Christmas with the patients of the Psychiatric Inpatient Unit of the Burnaby Hospital. Patients were not able to leave the ward to be with their families during the holiday season; Therefore Milani Plumbing, Drainage and Heating provided a sit down holiday meal in the Hospital.
“When we asked Cathie (Heritage) at Burnaby Hospital, where the biggest need was? She replied without hesitation ‘our Psychiatric Patients’. During the holidays women and children usually get all the attention, but this population of the hospital is typically forgotten. That is why we want to bring them some joy, smiles and a great meal”, said Vern Milani, President of Milani Plumbing.
Three turkeys were roasted on site by Milani volunteers that started at 5am and were ready by noon for these patients, most of whom suffered from depression, schizophrenia or Bipolar disorders. Milani hoped to not only provide some Christmas cheer but to also bring awareness to the programs that help its patients to recover and get back to their normal lives in the community.
Burnaby Mental Health Service Inpatient Unit is a 25-bed psychiatric unit for adults which provides treatment to patients who are experiencing an acute phase of psychiatric illness. The aim of IPU is to provide a safe physical and emotional environment where the patient is able to discuss concerns and learn new coping skills.