News

The Supportive and Palliative Care Volunteer Service of Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) honoured the dedication and compassion of volunteers from western Sydney with an afternoon tea held at the Mount Druitt Supportive and Palliative Care Unit.

Dr Sally Greenaway, Director of Supportive and Palliative Medicine at WSLHD, expressed gratitude to the volunteers for their unwavering commitment and compassionate care throughout the western Sydney community.

Certificates of recognition were awarded along with special gifts of appreciation including a candle that could be burnt “in remembrance of all those they have cared for”.

Volunteers visit patients in their homes, provide biography/life story services, in addition to visiting four inpatient sites six days a week across Westmead Hospital, Auburn Hospital and Blacktown Mount Druitt Hospitals (BMDH).

The team includes an incredible 65 volunteers who provide comfort with their warmth, presence, and willingness to be with patients and families at the most challenging time of their life.

WSLHD Volunteer Manager Kylie Clark awarded eight volunteers with their five years of service certificates, acknowledging the dedication and commitment that has been shown since the service was first established in 2006.

“I was incredibly lucky to have an amazing group of people come together to establish a service that has grown to over 60 volunteers,” Kylie said.

“The volunteers all bring their unique skills and experience and I have learnt so much from them, it has been a privilege to get to know you all and to watch you grow and discover what palliative care volunteering is all about”.

Kylie is transitioning from her role as Volunteer Coordinator at WSLHD to take on the same position for the Nepean, Hawkesbury region. Since the inception of the Volunteer program in 2016, Kylie has played a key role in its establishment and growth, and her departure will be deeply felt by everyone.

Read more about this well deserved recognition by clicking HERE.

Source: The Pulse WSLHD