Hospice Volunteers Share their Experiences
July 21, 2020
The gifts of time, love and compassion shared by our volunteers is a blessing to the patients and families they serve. Following you’ll find some of the special, moving experiences they’ve shared…
Celebrating a life with the family
When I arrived, patient’s grandson came out of her room to greet me in the living room and fill me in on how her day went. I let the patient know I was there to visit and sit with her, I held her and stroked her hand. Her grandson stepped out to make a few calls and to do his laundry. He let me know that his grandmother had done her own laundry as well as a few of the other residents, she enjoyed keeping busy and helping other residents.
The patient’s daughter arrived a short time later and shared more stories about how her mom always kept busy and helped out their neighbors and then the residents. We included the patient in the conversation. The conversation turned towards the patient and how she would be reunited with all those she loved and has missed for so long. The patient’s daughter thought she saw a small smile come across her face and we both felt a faint squeeze from her hand. I stayed a little longer that night to offer additional support to daughter and grandson.
Before I left, I let patient know that I was so happy to have met her and for the time we spent together. I gave her a kiss on her forehead, and a hug to her grandson and daughter. Then I let them know they could call or text me if they need anything or to talk. A short while later I received a call from patient’s grandson to inform me that patient passed peacefully. I am glad her grandson was with the patient when she passed.
Sharing the big game with a big fan
Brought over a pizza and streamed the college football playoffs for the patient since he doesn’t get the channel they are one. Usually, he’ll take off around 4:30 to go to dinner, but this time he said he was going to skip because he really wanted to watch the game. The first game was a blowout, but it was his team who won. The second game came down to the last possession and was much more exciting.