We recently completed National Volunteer Week — April 15-21. It was a time to recognize and celebrate thousands of men, women and young people who volunteer in communities across the country.

I am the hospice volunteer coordinator at Camellia Hospice, and I want to honor all those who are dedicated to providing care and support for patients and families in our community who are nearing the end of life’s journey.

Across the country, more than 458,000 trained volunteers provide more than 21 million hours of service to hospice organizations. More than 1.58 million people receive compassionate care from hospice every year and hospice volunteers are an integral part of the care team.

Here in our community, 20 volunteers work with Camellia Hospice to care for patients, help with outreach, assist in the office, provide fundraising support and much more.

It’s a mistake to think that hospice is giving up — hospice is about living as fully as possible, even at the end of life.

Hospices can provide care, support and dignity.

 

Jeannie Couture

Hospice volunteer coordinator