Hi Jennifer (highlanddancermom40),
I am happy to see you here on virtual hospice. Your obvious compassion and empathy will be welcomed by so many. I am an occasional contributor, myself.
Because of the volume, it is not possible for any single contributor to respond to everyone. That is why it is important that there are many “support contributors.” As well, some stories resonate more with a specific individual. The “matches” might seem to be random, but I believe that somehow, just the right connections are made. Don’t ask me how.
I have been a Resident Support Volunteer at our local hospice for almost 3 years now. I have grown to appreciate the wonderful, amazing contributions of all the medical staff. My favourites are the PSWs. Whenever I “fill in” for someone in the kitchen, I always try to bake something tempting for them. My sister is a PSW.
If you want to talk about your sister, we are all “here for you”.
I liked your comment: “If anyone should have any questions, I would be happy to share what I know” You can be a valuable resource for many.
I have a question for you, Jennifer (by the way, that’s my daughter’s name). Do you feel that there is a need for a forum for PSWs and volunteers to share?
I am specifically concerned with helping caregivers and volunteers deal with and perhaps prevent burnout. I went through a “burnout” myself and have learned how to cope and prevent future incidents.
I have seen amazingly compassionate and skilled PSWs and volunteers that I know, quit the profession that they loved so much. I wish I knew where a “virtual support group” existed and still hope that Virtual Hospice will open such a forum
-eKIM