Ondřej Česal appointed director of St. Stephen's Hospice in Litoměřice

Ondřej Česal, 47, became the new director of St. Stephen's Hospice in Litoměřice at the start of June, succeeding Monika Marková after her 13‑year tenure. Česal, who grew up in Libochovice and previously volunteered at the hospice while his father led it, said he was impressed by how well the facility already operates and felt the timing was right to take over.

The hospice, which celebrated its 25th anniversary this year, provides palliative care aimed at ensuring a dignified, pain‑free end of life. Česal highlighted the need to educate the public about the hospice’s role, stressing that it is not a place of sorrow but a supportive environment where patients can spend their final days with comfort and family.

His background includes experience as a special‑education teacher and managerial roles in health‑information and pharmacy sectors, as well as personal interests in marathon running, triathlon, tennis and gardening.