Throughout my childhood and well into adolescence, death perplexed me as the most incomprehensible subject – and I mean that in the most literal sense of the word. I eschewed the thought of it whenever it wandered into my mind, which occurred more frequently than one might expect. Staring at the ceiling as I tried … Continue reading “Coming to Grips with Death Itself”
Category: Athena Hospice Program
this is for posts in the category of Athena Hospice
The Story of Our Lives
Over the past 8 months, I have not only grown as a student in the medical field but as a citizen of the world. The Athena Institute Pre-Med Hospice program opened my eyes in terms of viewing patients and caregivers in the real-world, not just what you hear on the news and from others. Medicine … Continue reading “The Story of Our Lives”
Being a companionship volunteer helped me further develop soft skills that are essential for my journey in medicine.
I chose to volunteer with the Athena Hospice Program because it offered a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of patient care outside of an acute clinical setting. Through this program, I’ve come to appreciate how healthcare extends beyond prescribing medication and treatments. It includes offering palliative care and companionship support as people approach … Continue reading “Being a companionship volunteer helped me further develop soft skills that are essential for my journey in medicine.”
The Secret of a Smile
After only a few visits to “Millie”, it became clear that we had much in common. We both appreciated summers on the Jersey Shore, we both adored looking at photographs of dogs, and we both wanted to spend as much time outside as possible. On a deeper level, we both shared the tendency to choose … Continue reading “The Secret of a Smile”
The Power of Presence in Patient Care
When I started my hospice volunteering experience, I worried about being bothersome to my patients and not having the right personality to provide comfort. I wanted to be a helpful part of their care team, but I doubted whether I could guide conversations or recognize when a patient preferred to talk, listen, or sit in … Continue reading “The Power of Presence in Patient Care”
Lessons Learned in Hospice Care: Coffee & Small Comforts
“Sarah” and I shared many moments over coffee, a simple ritual that became the foundation of our bond. She had heart failure, and while her body grew weaker, her spirit remained vibrant. When I first met her, I was unsure of what to say, afraid that I wouldn’t have the right words or that I … Continue reading “Lessons Learned in Hospice Care: Coffee & Small Comforts”
Hallucinations and Hard Conversations
This year, I have been meeting with Anita. She has navy blue crocs with pink gibits, she likes ice cream and reading out loud, and she has a very sweet and strong personality. When I visit, we sometimes talk and sometimes watch what’s on the tv. I have listened to Anita describe the things she’s … Continue reading “Hallucinations and Hard Conversations”
Finding The Joy Again
Since starting the Hospice program with Athena, I have learned a lot about what end of life care really is. In September of 2024 I met “Mr. Smith” playing bingo at a table in the lounge of his senior living facility. It had been awhile since I had interacted with someone of his age, especially … Continue reading “Finding The Joy Again”
A Journey With My Patient
As I walked into the senior living home for the first time, I felt a mix of excitement and sorrow. I was thrilled to have a patient to interact with–to provide support to–which was my role as a hospice volunteer. But when I saw my patient, my excitement faded — I saw her bed-ridden and … Continue reading “A Journey With My Patient”
The Life-Changing Impact of Hospice Volunteering
Through this wonderful journey as a Hospice volunteer, I have cultivated a memorable bond with my patient, “Michelle”. While visiting her over fifteen times in these past two semesters, I have developed a deep bond with “Michelle”. Whenever I visit her, I am constantly amazed by her passion and determination to talk, make friends, and … Continue reading “The Life-Changing Impact of Hospice Volunteering”