Volunteer Spotlight with Lisha Watson
We’re so appreciative of our hospice volunteers. Each one of them has a heart of gold. For National Volunteer Appreciation Month, we are highlighting Lisha Watson. Lisha's warm personality and zest for life and others shine through her bright smile. Her presence is a gift to our team and hospice patients.
“I’m glad that I followed through with it [volunteering] because the experience has been incredibly rewarding.”
Absolute: People choose to volunteer for various reasons, why are you a hospice volunteer?
Lisha: Starting out, I wasn’t sure about it, but I considered it as my opportunity to give back. I’m glad that I followed through with it because the experience has been incredibly rewarding. My view on hospice was changed (and enhanced) when I experienced it first-hand with my parents. Those experiences alone changed my perspective, and I’ve developed a deep appreciation for hospice workers.
A: Describe what a patient visit looks like for you? How do you spend your time?
L: My visits are simple. I talk to my patients if they’re able to, and we have the best discussions. One of my dementia patient’s memories began to flow back to her, and she shared with me a beautiful story of her traveling to Italy with her mother to visit her grandmother. She was school-aged - maybe about junior high, or high-school. Her memories of her grandmother and of her visit were so vivid. Through her descriptions, I could smell the food! Her eyes lit up while telling the story and for a moment she was transported back to a moment of clarity. I was so honored to be a part of that moment. She would say to me, “I want to tell you this, but I’m beginning to get confused.” To which I replied, “thank you for the stories you do remember.”
“I was so honored to be a part of that moment.”
A: Being a volunteer anywhere makes a huge difference in this world. What would you say the biggest difference is for you?
L: I’ve discovered skills inside of me that were lying dormant - like my listening skills. I’ve learned to truly listen. I’ve also developed stronger compassion for people.
Due to COVID-19, volunteers are not actively visiting patients. However, we are actively recruiting volunteers. If you’re interested in becoming a hospice hero, contact us. Complete the volunteer interest form below (click the photo.)
