Caring for someone approaching the end of their life can be a uniquely rewarding and enlightening experience.
The Nepean Hawkesbury Palliative Care Volunteer Service, coordinated through Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, is currently seeking volunteers who are patient, flexible and non-judgmental.
Jenni cared for her husband, Jeff who had motor neurone disease. Sadly, Jeff passed away in early 2019.
“Our volunteer carer Margaret seemed like an instant friend. She and Jeff hit it off from the beginning. I needed to get out for different things and knowing Margaret was there made those times easier,” says Jenni.
Volunteer carer Margaret says, “It’s a privilege to be welcomed into someone’s home at such a difficult time. For me, it’s about doing what I can to ease the burden, both for the carer and for the patient.”
The Nepean Hawkesbury Palliative Care Volunteer Service is inviting enquiries from people interested in supporting someone at end-of-life. There is also an opportunity to become a Volunteer Biographer, capturing someone’s reflection of their life in a written memoir.
Volunteers only need to commit up to four hours of their time each week. Clearance checks, training and ongoing support are provided. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator on 0401 715 851 for more information.
