Volunteering for Hospice Northwest
print friendly versionNovember 11, 2009
Doing volunteer work is a great way to open your heart, and to make a difference. Yesterday, I graduated from a 10-week course through Hospice Northwest to assist people with a life limiting illness to find joy, meaning and comfort in their lives. It was an eye-opening and sometimes emotional 10 weeks. I heard the stories of many volunteers and caregivers in palliative care, and was truly moved by what they had to say.
Executive Director, Joan Williams and Terri Kannegiesser, Volunteer Coordinator, both of Hospice Northwest put together an excellent panel of presenters over the past few months. Marg Poling, Sue Bailey, Pauline Bodnar, Jim Hyder, Paul Carrier, Deb Spear, Walid Chahal, Meta Evans, Reverend Hugh Walker, Marg McKee, and Leona Dicasmirro were some of the presenting speakers. I know the stories that Jim Hyder and Reverend Hugh Walker told will stay with me always. Also, it was a great pleasure to meet so many interesting people in the course, who felt driven to make a contribution to our community in this way.
The word "hospice" itself, actually dates back to medieval times. It was considered a place of shelter for travellers on a difficult journey. While this original meaning still holds true, today, the word hospice is defined as a philosophy of care.
It is my hope that I can provide care and support, as well as use hypnotherapy techniques to provide pain management to those who need it. I am sure that I will grow from this experience. I thank all the volunteers and panel presenters, as well as Joan and Terri for their wonderful support and wisdom.
Candace McLean
