Susan, Barre Town
Susan has been volunteering with CVHHH’s hospice program, providing companionship to community members in their home or a facility, since 2025.
Why did you choose to volunteer with CVHHH?
I volunteered for six years previously in California, and during our training I recall that just about every person was there because they had experienced an emotionally difficult death – and I was there for the same reason. You kind of want to have a do-over and make it better for the next person.
What qualities should a hospice volunteer have?
Compassion is number one. Being social enough to be able to speak to anyone and being able to let go when the time has come.
Why do people choose to receive care at home?
Dignity, comfort, of course, and being around your own things. It just seems like you might have a little more control.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’ve had so many people say, “I could never do what you do. I could never do that.” And my response is always, “How can you not? I walk out of there with my heart just as full as can be.
