News

South Western Sydney Local Health District celebrated its palliative care volunteers this International Volunteer Day, December 5. This annual day of recognition is part of a global campaign to honour volunteers who generously give their time to support their community.

Volunteer Manager Hiten Narula reports that, as part of the celebration, volunteers received a certificate recognising their commitment and selfless efforts, along with a starfish token inspired by the Starfish Story. This story reminds us that even small, consistent actions can make a profound difference—much like the boy on the beach who returned a stranded starfish to the ocean, knowing that while he couldn’t save them all, he made a difference to that one.

“Our palliative care volunteers, working in hospital wards and within the community, dedicate themselves to patients and carers, consistently putting others first. Like our clinical teams, they play an invaluable role in promoting comfort and providing emotional support to patients, families, and carers,” says Hiten.

“We want to say a big thank you to all our volunteers for the incredible work you do. Just like the boy in the story, you make a meaningful difference in the lives of every patient and carer you support.”

Main image at top of page: South Western Sydney palliative care volunteers (L to R) – Janet Perry, Mimmi Djordjevic, Josephine Masi, Salam Dandachli, & Paul Hayes.