Set out below are a sampling of comments from volunteers as to why they became a Hospice volunteer and continue today to be a volunteer with the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society.

“It was while I was nursing that I first became aware of how comforting a visit from a Hospice Volunteer could be to a patient and their family. I decided then that when I retired I would become a Hospice Volunteer, and I am now in my sixth year.”

“I had a twenty year background working at the cancer clinic as a medical social worker. This gave me a feeling of familiarity with hospice work. I then took the Hospice training and learnt a lot; especially about listening. I came to be increasingly impressed with the standard of training and the excellence of the speakers. I continue to be actively involved with Hospice, my preference now being to do vigils.”

“I joined Hospice because I had close friends dying of cancer – I didn’t know what to say or do.”

“I joined Hospice because my dad had Alzheimers. He was in hospital with a man who had cancer… the man had no support.”

“I have had an interest in Hospice for the past ten or more years. I first became involved when I responded to a newspaper advertisement and after taking the volunteer training program, I felt the time was right to become involved. I continue to be a volunteer because I truly enjoy working with people and feel honored to be with people while in that transition.”

“I had just finished my working career and felt it was then right to put time into the community. I read the advertisement and took the Hospice course and continue to volunteer simply because when I make a commitment to something, I stick to it. I am getting of an age when I can see death lurking. Hospice is a learning experience and we can get out of it as much as we put in.”

“I am a Hospice Volunteer because I have always felt that no person should die alone. It is for this reason that I do all night vigils. I stay on as a Volunteer because I believe that as long as I can make a difference in someone’s death; help make it an easier journey or help someone get through their grief… then I want to continue to do the work.”

“I became involved with Hospice after my mother died and realized then how important it was to have people around the family at that time. I carry on being involved with Hospice because I am still getting a lot from it.”

“I became a Hospice Volunteer because for me it is important I contribute to my community in a meaningful way. I enjoy working with various clients and get much gratification from being part of a team that provides a much-needed service to society.”

“I volunteer my time as webmaster of the Hospice Society web site after getting to know about the work of the society through my best friend, a woman actively involved in Hospice for many years. I can see the peace she brings everyone around her, and I want to be a part of that kind of giving. My family and work commitments preclude me from being an active Hospice Volunteer, but I can give of my time. It is incredibly satisfying and an honour to be part of something so meaningful in our community.”

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

The Board of Directors,
Sunshine Coast Hospice Society
PO Box 902
Sechelt BC V0N 3A0

Dear Board Members:

I would like to thank you for all the help that my family and I received from the Hospice Society. When my husband became too ill for me to look after him at home it was a real blessing to have the Sunshine Coast Hospice to turn to. Although he had been dreading being hospitalized, his first comment to the family was about how comfortable and homey the room at the hospice was. We were allowed to visit whenever we wished and we were told we could stay overnight if necessary, either in his room or in the family room next door. During the last three days of his life, he stated he wanted “at least” two family members with him at all times. Needless to say, the family room was well used at that point with need for naps and spelling each other off. We could not have asked for anything more.

The bereavement support was invaluable. From the time we moved to the Coast we were pretty ‘housebound’ and other than quick trips for groceries and errands, I certainly did not have a chance to get out and make friends or really get acquainted with the neighbours. There was no support group here other than the family. The lady from Hospice offered me support both before and after my hsuband’s death and was there to confirm that what I was going through was not unique. She certainly provided with moral support during a very difficult time. Thank you so much again. Your help was much appreciated.

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