Volunteers like Patti Archibald help to ensure that support is there for patients and families at the Delta Hospice Society.
Archibald’s favourite volunteer shift at the Irene Thomas Hospice in Ladner is at lunch time.
“There’s more to do and I like to be busy. More people are up, there’s more interaction – with both patients and family members,” said Archibald.
She has been a volunteer with Delta Hospice Society for more than two years. She volunteers at reception at the Centre for Supportive Care, and she also has a weekly lunch time shift at the 10-bed hospice.
Hospice volunteers’ main priority is providing support for patients and families.
“We often connect with family more than with the patients,” Archibald said. “We spend much of our time with family members who are coming to terms with what’s happening for their person.”
She acknowledges the work can be sad at times.
“Strangely enough, though, it’s a great place to be around. In the downtime we have good laughs. I’ve made wonderful friends here,” she adds.
Her response to why she volunteers is simple – because it matters – because it makes a difference in someone’s life.
“And it makes a difference to me. I can make a difference. The volunteers really matter,” she said.
If you’re looking for volunteer work that really matters – at the hospice residence, at the Centre for Supportive Care or in the community - call 604-948-0660 to find out more.
