The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice has received a generous $100,000 donation from Ken Sinnesael and his daughters Kady Sumner and Kendra Sinnesael, in memory of their beloved wife and mother, Debra Vanden Bussche Sinnesael. The heartfelt gift reflects the family’s deep commitment to bringing compassionate, local end-of-life care to Norfolk County.
Debra was known for her love of nature, her vibrant garden, and her warm, giving spirit. Her favourite flowers—gladiolus—symbolized her strength and grace, and she lovingly passed on her passion for gardening to her children. She was also a deeply devoted grandmother to five grandchildren, always remembering birthdays, favourite treats, and small details that made her family feel seen and cherished.
After a difficult two-year battle with stage 4 lung cancer, Debra passed away in a hospital in Hamilton. Although the hospital provided medical care, it lacked the comforting, home-like environment she had hoped for. Due to restrictions and limited hospice availability, she was unable to spend her final days closer to home.
“We want other families to have the support we didn’t,” said Ken. “A hospice is needed so badly in this community. I want to see it built—and who knows, I may even need it someday.”
In honour of Debra’s memory, the family hopes the donation will help create peaceful spaces within the future hospice, including gardens or sitting areas that reflect her love of nature and family.
The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice expressed its deepest gratitude for this extraordinary act of generosity, which brings them one step closer to ensuring that every local resident can experience dignity and peace at the end of life.
Written by Georgia Chambers and Jeremy Hall