“Our volunteer was a wonderful man to my husband. He deserves a medal for doing what he does. Thanks.”
It’s not unusual for Home Hospice volunteers to be asked how they handle the sadness that must surely come from working with those who are dying. Responses come swiftly. They focus on life, not death. Marilyn Clark, a retired nurse and Home Hospice patient volunteer since 1996 said, “I find a great deal of joy in bringing peace to the patient and families and being able to just be there for them. We’re all going to experience loss at some point, so to make the journey a little easier and more comfortable is a wonderful service.”
“Taking care of a terminally ill person can be very consuming and family members need to be able to go out to eat, or take a walk and get some fresh air,” Marilyn continued. “I can sit with the patient and read or talk. You know, some people are surprised that having a break is important to the patient too.”
Many are surprised to learn that many Home Hospice volunteers have had family members who were cared for by Home Hospice. The volunteers express a strong desire to give something back and find service a deeply satisfying experience.
Individuals are encouraged to wait a year after the loss of a significant person before serving as a Home Hospice volunteer working with patients, families or caregivers.
