One thing to remember as we celebrate Memorial Day is those veterans who are still with us but may be towards the ends of their lives. With that in mind, HCI Hospice Care Services would like to let the public know about a volunteer opportunity specifically geared towards veterans.
The Veteran-to-Veteran volunteer program was designed by HCI as a way to bring individuals who have served the country together with others who are hospice patients. HCI Volunteer Coordinator Hannah Sedlacek says the veterans provide both companionship and understanding for the patients as they talk, read, or just sit together. “Towards the end of life, patients who have faced traumatic experiences may be dealing with memories and emotions that can be easier to share with fellow military veterans. Or it may be that they simply enjoy the sense of camaraderie that they receive through the companionship of a fellow veteran. So our program really provides that vital connection.”
Sedlacek adds, like all volunteers who assist hospice patients, those in the Veteran-to-Veteran program receive specialized training offered throughout the year. The next training session will be held this fall. For more information on this program and others offered through HCI, listen to today’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program. Anyone with questions can also contact them at 515-465-4705 or visit their website by clicking the link below.