St Elizabeth Hospice, in Ipswich, pays tribute to retiring medical director Dr Kelvin Bengston
A hospice has thanked its ‘dedicated’ and ‘highly respected’ medical director, who is retiring after 15 years of service.
Dr Kelvin Bengston has been with St Elizabeth Hospice, in Ipswich, since 2008, and has supported thousands of patients and their families during that time.
He was responsible for medical leadership and ensuring the hospice delivered the highest level of person-focused care to its patients.
Dr Alison Blaken will step up as interim medical director, having been Dr Bengston’s deputy for several years.
Judi Newman, CEO of St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “Kelvin’s reputation is recognised nationally in the world of palliative and end of life care, and we have been so fortunate to benefit from his exceptional care for so many years.
“He is highly respected by the whole hospice team and courtesy of his dedicated clinical work and guidance, thousands of people from across the region have received holisitic, compassionate healthcare support.
“His ethos of individualised care, with patients’ comfort and quality of life being paramount, has shaped the evolution of our services and will be the cornerstone of St Elizabeth Hospice for years to come.”
Dr Blaken is currently a consultant in palliative medicine, and she also recognised the work Dr Bengston has done to nurture the hospice.
She said: “I have worked with Kelvin for 12 years. In this time he has grown and nurtured our hospice team, so we are in the best position to deliver services to more patients than ever before.
“He inspires us with his compassion and dedication, but also as a supportive colleague and friend; whilst many of us have been through our own personal and professional challenges, he steadies us with his listening ear and wise reflections.
“His door is always open and his chocolate brownies are legendary.”
Dr Bengston also reflected on his time at the hospice, and stated that receiving an outstanding CQC rating and developing the Zest young adult service were some of his highlights.
“St Elizabeth Hospice is the best place that I have worked at, in the UK – the ethos and the atmosphere is so positive and encouraging and compassionate.
“I have had a wonderful term here at St Elizabeth Hospice and that is due to the team of staff and volunteers that I have had the honour of working with. Thanks to you all for embracing me in this fold.
“I know there have been more challenging times but mostly it has been great with wonderful camaraderie.”
