Biography

Lydia du Pluesis, known to the community as Ria, was a staff member at the Potchefstroom Hospice until it closed in 2010. She lives in Potchefstroom and knew there was still a need for palliative care as well as a day care program for orphans, children of her terminally ill patients, and children with chronic illnesses such as HIV/AIDS. 

She started Hospice Emanuel Loving Angels in June 2010. In the day, she provides 90 children ages 0-5 with early childhood educational opportunities and a nutritious meal. In the evening, she provides home care for all her terminally ill patients. Her mission is to provide individuals and families facing serious illness, death, and grief with the best experience of humanity and to ensure that their lives are lived with dignity.