Working with palliative care on a business compliance level is much different for me than the volunteer work I perform with Boise’s Life’s Doors Hospice program. I started with the group last summer and shortly after, volunteered with my first terminally ill patient. My duties as a volunteer have varied but I have really enjoyed this time with both volunteers and coordinators and also with the patients.
One of the great parts involved with Life’s Doors and the volunteer program is our monthly meeting in which we are able to have group discussions and education on hospice related topics. The October meeting that I attended included a review of abuse and neglect in various forms and causes, along with directives when suspecting these types of activity and direct agency information. This is followed by an open discussion in relation to the presented topic and also our volunteer work. These meetings are very informative and helpful, as we are able to share experiences to gain a better understanding of how to communicate patient changes as they may relate to improving patient comfort and care.
My volunteer work has been rewarding in so many ways, I enjoying just sitting and listening to stories as well as helping out around the house with chores that provide some relief to the patients and their families. Life’s Doors is a wonderful organization to take part in.