New palliative care centre for P.E.I.

The province announced plans to start construction on a $5 million, 10-bed palliative care centre Wednesday.

The centre replaces a wing in the 80-year-old Prince Edward Home, and it will be a scaled down facility compared to the one promised two years ago.

"The project was pushed back during last year's budget process, but it is a commitment," said P.E.I. Health Minister Doug Currie.

"Certainly we recognize the value of the standalone facility and end of life care."

The new centre is a step in the right direction according to Peter McCrady, whose wife, Jessie McCrady, died on June 20 in palliative care.

"It gives patients a breath of fresh air at that point of their life which I think is an important part," said McCrady.

McGrady is relieved his wife’s final moments were as comfortable as possible thanks to the end of life care she received.

"They're there to help the patients. Look after their pain, and make sure the rest of their time here on earth is as pleasant as possible," he said.

"And I’ve got to say, they were very successful in doing that, especially as a concern of my wife."

In her final days, Jessie McCrady dedicated her efforts to raising money for palliative care.

In an interview with CBC News, she said, "They do all kinds of things to make you comfortable. And that's their main goal."

Weeks after that interview, Jessie McCrady lost her battle.

The province says the new facility could be expanded in the future, and hopes patients can begin using the centre, including outpatient services, in the fall of 2014.

Tenders for the construction will be issued this fall.