April 10-16 is National Volunteer Week. Nowhere is the gift of volunteering more important than in hospice.

I am a hospice volunteer at Hospice of Southwest Georgia, and I am privileged to be one of many who offer support, companionship and hope to those at the end of life’s, journey.

I decided to become a hospice volunteer after experiencing the wonderful care that my sisters received during there illness, and saw firsthand how hospice continued to support my family after there death. They were there for us and help us through this journey.

Many misconceptions about hospice exist that it means “giving up,” or that there’s “nothing more than can be done.”

I can say from experience that the benefits of hospice are great, both for the families and the volunteers. Hospice is about living and making sure those with a life-limiting illness are surrounded by love and support.

I encourage others to learn more about Hospice of Southwest Georgia and volunteer opportunities by contacting us at (229) 246-9965.

Sincerely,

Barbara Kelly

Volunteer