"A Heartfelt Commitment to Compassion: Volunteering at Doctor's Hospice of Idaho"In the picturesque landscapes of Idaho, where the rugged beauty of nature meets the compassionate care of healthcare professionals, Doctor's Hospice of Idaho stands as a beacon of hope and comfort for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. At the heart of this remarkable institution lies a group of dedicated volunteers whose selfless contributions play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families. This article delves into the noble world of volunteering at Doctor's Hospice of Idaho, shedding light on the impactful work they do to make a difference in the lives of those in need.The Essence of Volunteering:Volunteering at Doctor's Hospice of Idaho is a noble endeavor that goes beyond the realms of traditional healthcare. It involves individuals from diverse backgrounds, united by a common purpose to provide comfort, companionship, and support to patients and their families during challenging times. The essence of volunteering here lies in the belief that every person deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by warmth and understanding.Roles and Responsibilities:Volunteers at Doctor's Hospice of Idaho engage in a myriad of roles, each tailored to meet the unique needs of patients and their families. These roles may include:Companionship: One of the primary responsibilities of volunteers is to offer companionship to patients. Whether engaging in conversation, reading a book, or simply providing a comforting presence, volunteers create a supportive environment for patients who may be experiencing isolation.Emotional Support: Dealing with end-of-life situations can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Volunteers lend a compassionate ear and offer emotional support to help individuals navigate the complex array of feelings associated with terminal illnesses.Respite for Caregivers: In addition to supporting patients, volunteers play a crucial role in providing respite for caregivers. By offering to assist with daily tasks or providing relief to family members, volunteers contribute to easing the burden on those caring for their loved ones.Assistance with Activities: Volunteers may engage patients in various activities, such as art and music therapy, to enhance their quality of life. These activities aim to bring joy, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment to patients during their hospice care.Bereavement Support: After the passing of a loved one, volunteers extend their support by helping families cope with grief. This ongoing support is a testament to the lasting impact volunteers have on the lives of those connected to Doctor's Hospice of Idaho.The Impact of Volunteering:The impact of volunteering at Doctor's Hospice of Idaho is immeasurable, leaving a lasting impression on both volunteers and those they serve. By fostering an atmosphere of compassion and understanding, volunteers contribute to the overall well-being of patients and their families. The positive ripple effect of their efforts extends beyond the hospice setting, creating a supportive community that values the importance of dignity and empathy in the face of life's most challenging moments.How to Become a Volunteer:If you're inspired to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing life-limiting illnesses, Doctor's Hospice of Idaho welcomes individuals from all walks of life to join their volunteer program. The process typically involves an application, orientation, and training sessions to equip volunteers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the unique challenges of hospice care. Prospective volunteers can find more information on the official website or by contacting the volunteer coordinator directly.Conclusion:Volunteering at Doctor's Hospice of Idaho is a profoundly rewarding experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of healthcare. Through their dedication, compassion, and selflessness, volunteers become integral members of a team committed to providing comfort and solace during life's most delicate moments. As they weave a tapestry of support around patients and their families, these volunteers embody the spirit of humanity at its best, making a lasting impact that extends far beyond the walls of the hospice facility.Please contact us at (208) 985-2260

Death is scary. Talking about death isnt easy. Most people want to fight death and extend their life as long as possible, and not mention it. But no matter what we do, the result will be the same, we will die. But its ok to talk about it, to plan for it, and to embrace it. And an End-of-Life Doula can be a helpful guide in making your final journey what you want it to be.Amongst a growing movement to normalize death, End of Life Doulas have emerged to help fill a need by providing professional guidance, resources, and a compassionate hand during this often-difficult time. Among many other things, a doula can help with planning; understanding the dying process; and assisting the family through grief. Through conversations, a doula can help the dying find meaning in their life through their legacies and can help with logistics and arrangements.  When the dying process begins, doulas can ensure that final wishes are being honored and can offer education to those involved about the dying process. Many doulas may be able to sit bedside for some of the final vigil to offer needed breaks for family members. After the passing, doulas can continue to offer support to families as they grieve.Talking about death will not speed up the process, but it might just help make it more comfortable and meaningful. Give it a try! Editors Note: This article was written by Lucy Crandall, an End-of-Life Doula. She can be reached at 719-641-6850 or at Lucy@goodmourningsco.com

For many of us, the holiday season is a joyful time. Its a rare chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and spend quality time with our loved ones. But for those dealing with the loss of someone close to them, the holidays can be an especially challenging period. Society tends to put a clock on grief, says Pastor Gary Gibson, Director of Spiritual Care and Chaplain at Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. Everyone goes through this process very, very differently. We must be respectful of that. If you or someone close to you is dealing with loss this time of year, its important to know that the most wonderful time of the year doesnt need to be the most difficult. Below are five tips Pastor Gary recommends to people struggling with grief over the holidays. 1. Set realistic expectations for yourself The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone, but they can be especially anxiety-inducing for someone dealing with loss. Its important to be honest with yourself about what youre capable of doing this time of year, Pastor Gary says. We shouldnt let other people determine what we should and should not do. 2. Surround yourself with people who love and support you This holiday season, evaluate your familys understanding of where you are in your journey. Keep in mind that while your friends and family may not always know the right thing to say or the best way to comfort you, they are in your corner and want to help. 3. Dont ignore your holiday traditions While the temptation might be there, try to do everything you can to avoid canceling your holiday plans and traditions. People will tell me they dont want to put up the tree or hang lights outside, Pastor Gary says. But for most people, the person they lost loved the holidays just as much as they did. Its important to still honor their memory. 4. Volunteer Whether its with a local food pantry, hospital, womens shelter or The Salvation Army, helping others is a surefire way to feel better during the holidays. While the first day or two may be difficult, once you volunteer a few times, you may find yourself going back every chance you get. 5. Small progress is still progress It could be hearing the persons favorite Christmas song on the radio or going to a coffee shop alone, but every person who has lost a loved one deals with triggers this time of year. The important thing is to not let it prevent you from making progress each day. Maybe the next time you go to the coffee shop, sit down and hang out for 10 or 15 minutes, Pastor Gary says. You may be surprised at who you might meet. Grief during the holidays is a battle, but with a positive mindset and the support of those around you, there is always hope. You can do it, Pastor Gary says. You just need to continue to encourage yourself to put one foot in front of the other.