A SYDENHAM hospice has banked a million-dollar cheque after winning the world's largest humanitarian prize.

The presentation of the Conrad N Hilton Foundation award to St Christopher's Hospice, in Lawrie Park Road, took place in New York last week. The event was postponed following the September 11 attacks.

Founder and president of the hospice Dame Cicely Saunders received the award from United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan and Conrad N Hilton Foundation president Steve Hilton.

They congratulated her for "lighting a flame for palliative care which has influenced the treatment of patients the world over."

Dame Cicely said: "Our focus on heart and mind led to the combination of science with unconditional care and regard.

"Whether in African or Indian villages or in the most sophisticated hospital, people need the skilled nursing care and expertise which will improve symptom control, matched with concern for them as individuals."

More information about the hospice can be found on its new website www.stchristophers.org.uk

December 4, 2001 12:49