Hospice

I saw an ad for volunteer Hospice training for Hospice of the Bluegrass in Frankfort for January 27th. I thought about it for several days and decided that I would go and offer my services as a volunteer Hospice Chaplain.

I've been one at two differ Hospices in the past. I enjoyed working with people who are under Hospice care. The down side is I get very involved with people and those in Hospice usually die after a period of time. I say usually as I have known two people when went into Hospice care and then they came out of it. As far as I know, they are still living.

Although I have had the training and experience, I requested the full training as it has been over 10 years since I worked with Hospice.

My storytelling has been used in certain situations and I have experienced some great stories from those who are in their final transition of life as we know it.

In a very real sense I am ministered to as I minister. It is like the saying in The Kingdom of Swaziland where I spent 6 years forking for the Swaziland Council of Churches which goes, "We wash each others hands".

Not everyone who is under Hospice care is religious - or I should say - belong to a church, synagog, or Masque or any other sort of religion. My main job is to listen and to affirm. Sometimes the patient and I explore things of the spirit or the Bible, but more often than not it is just being there that counts. My role as Chaplain also encompasses the family and friends who may reside with the patient.

Hospice is a team concept who pull together for the comfort of the patient and their family.

I do not want a full load - 5 - 7 days a week. I might as well have a job. Hopefully I can pick and choose the hours and days.