Honor their feelings, whatever they are. - Shelly J.
Shelly J. has been a hospice volunteer for nearly 15 years.
She has provided comfort, compassion, and companionship to her patients and family members too.
She has been both inspired by and an inspiration to many.
When your mother asks you to be there, it’s what you do!
Shelly’s mother Barb was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in the Spring of 2004. The news came as a surprise and was devastating for both mother and daughter. But Shelly made a promise to her mom that she would remain by her side, come what may.
The two spent their time playing cards, knitting scarves, and going through old photographs. They laughed together and cried together too. And although Shelly often felt helpless as her mother’s health slowly declined, she felt honored by the privilege of providing loving, personal care every step of the way.
Eventually, though, Barb’s needs would exceed Shelly’s ability to care for her alone. So, they decided to contact a local hospice organization for assistance.
My mother was the patient, but with the help of hospice, our spiritual and emotional needs were being met.
Empowered by a team of professionals including a pastor, a visiting nurse, medical assistants, and frequently visiting volunteers, Barb and Shelly were able to focus on their relationship and the time they had left with one another.
Shelly’s volunteer’s journey begins...
On the first anniversary of Barb’s passing, Shelly applied for a volunteer position with the same hospice organization that had so diligently assisted her family of two.
Each day, this beautiful soul finds joy in providing comfort to patients and their families. When asked what continues to motivate her, she replies, I live by a set of principles, they’re simple…
I listen, listen, listen, and listen more.
I am comfortable in silence when necessary.
I respect the patients and their family’s boundaries.
I honor their feelings, whatever they are.
Thank you, Shelly J., and the many volunteers who live by similar principles. Thank you for finding joy in what seems to others as difficult, challenging, and unimaginable. Thank you for your listening skills, warm hearts, and hands to hold, and for honoring the feelings of others, whatever they are...you are truly remarkable!
Thank you to the staff of The Western Reserve Masonic Community and the Western Reserve of Medina County for the countless hours of support provided to my mother and our family in our time of need. We will forever be grateful.
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