About Charlotte
Charlotte has been volunteering as a Wish Ambulance Driver with Ambulance Wish SA since 2025. Her role involves transporting patients to their special outings, supporting them and their families with comfort and reassurance along the way.
Charlotte reflects: “It is a privilege to hear people’s stories and witness the deep connections within families. These moments remind me of the importance of compassion and presence at the end of life.”
Q&A Interview:
Disclaimer: The views expressed are the opinions and thoughts of our interviewees, reflecting on their own experiences and views.
As a volunteer Ambulance Driver, I assist in transporting patients safely and comfortably to their special outings. This includes supporting Wish experiences, where patients are able to attend meaningful events or revisit places that matter to them. Beyond driving, my role involves providing emotional support, creating a calm environment, and being present for both patients and their families during what can be an emotional time.
I was drawn to palliative care through a desire to make a meaningful difference during a critical time in people’s lives. The opportunity to provide comfort, dignity, and support, both practically and emotionally, felt incredibly important. Being able to help create positive, lasting moments for patients and their families is something that resonated with me and my personal values.
Volunteering in palliative care is deeply rewarding. I have the privilege of meeting people with varied life experiences and hearing their stories, which offers perspective and gratitude. It has strengthened my empathy, communication skills, and ability to be present. The experience is both humbling and fulfilling, reminding me of the value of human connection.
Volunteers provide practical support, but more importantly, they offer companionship, reassurance, and a sense of normality. For patients and families, this can reduce stress and create space to focus on spending quality time together. During Wish days, volunteers help facilitate experiences that become cherished memories, allowing families to share moments of joy even in difficult circumstances.
I receive strong support through training, guidance, and ongoing communication from the Wish team. There is a clear structure in place to ensure volunteers feel prepared and supported, including debriefing opportunities and access to experienced staff when needed. This support is essential in helping volunteers navigate the emotional aspects of the role.
It would be valuable to see continued expansion of Wish programs, allowing more patients to access these memorable experiences. Increasing awareness of these services in the community would help ensure more people can benefit from them, which is something we all have the responsibility to promote!
Be open, compassionate, and willing to simply be present. You don’t need to have all the answers, sometimes just listening is enough. It can be an emotional role, but it is also incredibly rewarding. If you are considering it, know that the impact you make, no matter how small it may seem, can be deeply meaningful to someone else.
