A special calling

by Christian Schreiber, staff blogger

Nine years ago, Kurt Nelson's mother was dying. Having not experienced a death like this before, the Nelson family turned to a local Hospice organization to help them through this final journey. That Hospice provided medical care, compassion, an intimate knowledge of the dying process, pain relief, and peace. "The nurses were phenomenal," says Kurt. "And I thought, "We — Providence — have got to do this for our people."

As a member of Providence's Board of Directors at the time, Kurt described his personal experience and made a compelling presentation: "We walk with people for years — throughout their retirement, into Assisted Living, and often into a skilled nursing setting. We are there for them throughout the neediest times of their lives — shouldn't we be there at the end for them as well?"

The Board agreed. And Providence Hospice was formed.

Today, Providence Hospice ministers to an average of 35 people each day. A team of nurses, physicians, therapists, aides, chaplains, dietary experts, and volunteers offers the care and knowledge people need in order to prepare for eternity with dignity.

Kurt and his wife Bev have been actively involved as volunteers since the very beginning. Like all Providence Hospice volunteers, they received 8-10 hours of training before they started, and they take advantage of continuing education opportunities each year. While Hospice needs all kinds of volunteers with all kinds of gifts and skills, the Nelsons feel called to serve on the front lines, as companions for Hospice clients and their families. "Sometimes we go and just sit with the person," says Kurt, "so their family can have a chance to go home or take a nap or just get away for a while. Sometimes I'll read to someone for an hour, or we'll just talk. I remember one guy, I would just go there and we'd watch the Cubs games together."

What about you? Do you feel a special calling? Do you want to make a difference when it matters most? Providence Hospice could use you. They need all kinds of volunteers: office help, patient visitors, errand runners, and more. And they'll equip you with all the training, support, and continuing education you need.

To learn more, call Providence Hospice today: 708-331-0400. Or email Volunteer Coordinator Froncell at fkirkling@provlife.com.

"Try it. Do it. You'll be blessed," says Kurt.