It is with profound sadness that we inform the Global Partners in Care community of the death of Dr. Bernice Catherine Harper. Our sadness is tempered by our overwhelming gratitude for Dr. Harper’s immeasurable contributions to palliative care throughout the world. As many of you know, she was instrumental in the development of the Foundation for Hospices in Sub-Saharan Africa (FHSSA), the precursor organization to Global Partners in Care. Her ongoing engagement over the years provided guidance and wise counsel for our work.

Dr. Harper was not only a driving force who had a profound impact on the organization and the many lives we’ve touched – she was a close friend, confidant and advisor who will be greatly missed and forever appreciated.

It is our pleasure to re-share this article which was written as a tribute to Dr. Harper in 2022 on the eve of her 100th birthday. She worked closely with us to create it and was delighted to share more of her life story. We hope it serves as a reminder of her many achievements for those who knew her, an introduction for those who didn’t and an inspiration for all. She emanated faith, compassion and a conviction that we must care for one another. Her eloquent words will continue to inspire us:

“Our skills, knowledge and resources can be shared around the world quicker than ever before. Our voices can be heard from miles away. Our love for each other can be felt across oceans. We are all neighbors, and we must look out for one another. We must stand up and fight to end human suffering, together.”

– Dr. Bernice Catherine Harper

Global Partners in Care enhances access to hospice and palliative care across the globe through:

Partnerships:

Our Partnership Program enables US Partners working in hospice and palliative care to engage with sister organizations in low-resource settings.

Research and Education:

Global Partners in Care recognizes advancing research and growing opportunities for learning are important aspects of enhancing access to quality palliative care worldwide.

Global Collaboration:

Global Partners in Care is committed to working collaboratively with our partnership organizations, national associations and the many important international organizations working to enhance access to hospice and palliative care around the world.