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In April, Volunteer Recognition Month, UPMC Family Hospice acknowledged the volunteers who walk alongside Family Hospice patients and family members. As Family Hospice cares for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their caregivers, volunteers provide essential support.
"Family Hospice volunteers are a special group of people who are continually making a difference," said Volunteer Coordinator Catherine Zimmerman-Moyer.
"These 'Silent Angels' of hospice are compassionate, kind and loving. They see the value of being present with a hospice patient while providing caregiver relief to family member. They also understand the importance of walking with someone in their grief journey. They know that grief is just love with no place to go, and they understand with that major loss comes new beginnings."
The Blair County Family Hospice team includes Paula Ellstrom of Altoona, Ann Foust of Altoona, Betty Friedenberger of Altoona, Laura Hines of Martinsburg, Pastor Joe Hollen of Fallentimber, Gina Itle of Martinsburg, Vicki Johns of Hollidaysburg, Michele Lloyd of Duncansville, Sharon Long of Hollidaysburg, Becky Mathers of Altoona and Sherry Merritts of Tyrone.
Family Hospice volunteers embrace the opportunity and privilege to support patients and their caregivers through a significant and inevitable season of life.
Hospice volunteers make an impact in various ways, such as visiting with patients, providing relief for caregivers, assisting with clerical tasks as needed, making phone calls, communicating with grieving family members and more.
Family Hospice is recruiting additional volunteers to join the current team.
Volunteer involvement is determined by the individual's skills, desires and schedule. Volunteers are good listeners who display flexibility, understanding and empathy.
The time commitment for a volunteer can vary from several times per month to weekly. There are differing volunteer opportunities to match the strength and availability of volunteers. Specialized training is provided for new volunteers.
For more information or to apply for serving as Family Hospice volunteer, contact Zimmerman-Moyer at 814-502-5948 or
zimmermancp@upmc.edu.