About Kevin
Kevin volunteers in palliative care with NAHLN Volunteer Association and has been with the organisation since 2014. He began volunteering in the community and on the ward, but since Covid he only volunteers on the ward.
Kevin shares that what he loves about volunteering is simple: “Ask any volunteer and you will hear the same answers to this question. It’s rewarding beyond measure, it’s calming, it’s never boring, it’s a joy, a chance to make someone’s day just a little bit better and it’s unpaid, free,” he says.
Q&A Interview:
Disclaimer: The views expressed are the opinions and thoughts of our interviewees, reflecting on their own experiences and views.
I start around 7.30 one day a week. Starting early gives me the opportunity to assist patients with their breakfast needs such as making them toast, a fresh cup of tea or coffee, and it’s an excuse to visit briefly each patient to see if they want a chat later. If time allows, we restock the linen cupboard, tend to patients’ laundry as we have a washing machine and dryer, and liaise with the wonderful nurses for individual patients’ needs.
Twelve years ago, I retired and was told a very good friend had only six months to live due to a cancer diagnosis. I had plenty of time on my hands, so I visited him regularly at the Mary Potter Hospice. Seeing the volunteers and the impact they had on my friend inspired me to volunteer.
Personally, it’s rewarding in so many ways. A few hours out of your week gives me a sense of fulfilment, calm in a turbulent world, encouragement to continue doing more, and the chance to listen to interesting and often incredible life stories.
When a volunteer walks into the patient’s room we bring a sense of normality. We are there to chat about absolutely everything — their interests, be it gardening, footy, often their pets and if family or friends are visiting they join in. Often the mood lightens for a while and you leave them with a smile.
We are blessed at Modbury Palliative Care with very kind doctors and nurses who regularly ask how you are. It is a caring environment. The volunteer coordinators also always ask how we are. The best support comes from our “family” of volunteers in palliative care — I don’t think I could find a more loving, kinder group of like‑minded people.
I would say to them, the fact they are interested shows that they already have the right attitude. Come and try a few sessions with one of our wonderful experienced vollies. The rewards are never‑ending. I guarantee they will ask themselves why they didn’t volunteer before.
