IT IS THYME4DINNER

The members of the Rotary Club of Hamilton conducted a hands on service project - volunteering to purchase and make dinner for family members staying at the Mark Preece House on March 1st 2018. The Thyme4Dinner volunteer program engages volunteers to prepare a meal for the families staying at the house.

Mark Preece was a young, respected physician working in the Intensive Care Unit at Hamilton Health Sciences until his untimely death in 1997. While undergoing specialized cancer treatment in the United States, Mark’s family and friends experienced first-hand the value and support of a welcoming, affordable residence during such a difficult time. In honour of Mark, friends and colleagues worked for years to bring the Mark Preece Family House into existence.

The Mark Preece Family House is located close to the Hamilton Health Sciences’ General Hospital site, a prime focus site for Critical Care, Trauma Services, Burn Unit and a full range of Cardiac Surgery and Services. Until now, there has been no affordable place for patients’ families to stay near to their bedside. This creates an unnecessarily stressful situation for those involved.

After a long, stressful day at the hospital, a home cooked meal is very appreciated by all of the families staying at the Mark Preece House.  The Rotarians prepared dinner for 30 people. Dinner included beef burritos, homemade guacamole, Mexican rice, salad and chocolate cake.

Working together to prepare a meal was a great service and team building project.  Knowing that you are making a special meal for the family members - priceless.