HWR Volunteer Receives LeadingAge Ohio Excellence in Caring Award

After Cathy’s parents received end of life care at Hospice of Medina County, she got involved as a volunteer at Hospice of the Western Reserve. Throughout her ten years as a volunteer and with nearly 1,000 hours of service at Hospice of the Western Reserve (HWR), Cathy continuously embraces new challenges and opportunities to enhance the well-being of those in our care. 

In August, Cathy was recognized for these efforts with a LeadingAge Ohio Excellence in Caring Award. This award honors an outstanding direct or indirect care volunteer who enriches the lives of those they serve and exemplifies quality of care. 

Cathy was the only individual chosen for this award and was nominated with the support of Hospice of the Western Reserve staff and her fellow volunteers. “I am extremely honored to receive this award and it’s an honor to be able to spend time with a patient and their loved ones while they go through this journey,” said Cathy. “It’s truly humbling and to be able to work with the incredible HWR team and care staff in the inpatient unit is priceless.”

Cathy's volunteer role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from providing pet therapy visits to patients, families and staff to offering companionship and support at our inpatient units. Her impact is wide reaching, touching upon many aspects of hospice care.

“Cathy is empathetic, compassionate and flexible to meet the needs of the patients, families, visitors, staff and the HWR volunteer team,” said Jamie Glomb, Volunteer Service Manager. “She jumps in where necessary, always with a positive attitude and a helping hand and there is not a task too big or small that Cathy would not do to support a patient in their final hours.”

As a pet therapy volunteer, Cathy and her cherished dog Ralph deliver comfort to patients nearing the end of life, as well as to families navigating through grief. Their presence during these visits fosters treasured memories and brings a touch of normalcy during challenging times. “I was recently visiting a patient at the inpatient unit and a gentleman immediately recognized Ralph,” said Cathy. “It turns out, we had visited his mom when she was in the inpatient unit seven years prior. It meant so much to him that he kept videos and pictures from the visit.”

Since starting as a pet therapy volunteer, she has significantly expanded her role. 

Her evolution into an End-of-Life Doula (EOLD) is a testament to her dedication to improving her skills and understanding of end-of-life care and her readiness to learn and adapt showcases her profound empathy and bond with patients and families. Her activities range from supporting inpatient units, making community visits, participating in community events, conducting veteran recognition ceremonies, to aiding HWR’s resale services. 

As we celebrate Cathy for her remarkable achievements, we are reminded of the incredible difference one person can make. Her heartfelt compassion has not only uplifted countless patients and families but has also set a standard of excellence that inspires us all. Cathy is a shining example of the extraordinary impact a volunteer can have, and we are deeply grateful for her invaluable contributions to Hospice of the Western Reserve.