Julia Cundliffe
Golden Hospice Society
In the long and often painful journey one goes through when a life-threatening illness overtakes a loved one, family caregivers are always those that suffer along with the patient; yet their needs are often overlooked.
When we think of the dying, our first thoughts are with respect to the dying person. But the assistance provided by family caregivers is often the cornerstone of the care the family member receives.
Quality end of life care can only be achieved when not only the dying person, but also their family and volunteer caregivers are provided with assistance and support that they require and deserve. This is why, particularly for volunteers, training is important so that quality care is available to the whole family. The training and knowledge of the volunteers also guides them to also realize that they must care for themselves in order to provide healthy caring assistance to the client.
The Golden Hospice Society has been operating in this community for the past 13 years and over this period has had the privilege of assisting several families and individuals in need of this service. These volunteers are trained, confidential persons who are willing to give their time to those who particularly do not have immediate family members in the area. For those people not aware of how to contact this service, a referral to the local group can be made through your doctor, nursing staff, family member or your pastor. The local supervisor will then meet with you to discuss your needs and how volunteers can assist you .
More volunteers are always needed and a training session for volunteers is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30 in Golden and for more information, please call 250 344-6300.
