“I was hungry and you gave me to eat, thirsty and you gave me to drink.” – The Beatitudes
I heard a woman’s voice near my bedside, “I’m going to get you a warm blanket.” The woman returned and covered me from my chin down to my toes and wiped the tears from my eyes. I asked her, “What is your name?” She answered, “Oh I’m just a volunteer … ” As she was walking away, I called out, “Wait! Please, I need to know your name so I can thank you properly when I am better … ” She patted my foot gently, smiled back at me, and continued walking on her way.
As I begin this writing recalling my own first experience with a Healthcare Volunteer, it is difficult to choose the exact words which adequately describe the sacred services volunteers render to Catholic Hospice patients and families. So, where my words might fail, it is my hope that all volunteers know their unselfish service is invaluable.
Catholic Hospice volunteers become the extra heartbeat every patient and caregiver deserves. This heartbeat exists outside the medical journals and is hard to describe. But, there is an unmistakable response to its rhythm of unselfish love and compassion.
Patients who can no longer communicate may smile after a volunteer sings to them or simply holds their hand.
Grief stricken children who were once inconsolable begin to heal with the support of Cabin Buddies, through Camp Erin Bereavement volunteers.
Pet Peace of Mind offers volunteer assistance to patients and caregivers who are no longer able to care for their beloved pets.
Teens looking for community service hours are welcomed to support administrative needs.
We need you, whatever your time and talents may be, please consider being the “extra heartbeat” in the life of a patient and family.
