Joyce Somers

From the nominator:

“Enthusiasm and passion for the true spirit of hospice was redefined for me the day Joyce Somers came into the office requesting information on how to become a hospice volunteer. Her vibrancy and excitement for the possibility to serve others was incredible, it was so contagious I felt renewed in my purpose with hospice just by being in the same room.

Joyce is currently an employee of Logan Regional Hospital working in the business office. Joyce indicated to me on our first meeting that she too had experienced hospice care with her mother. She was disappointed in her experience. She had requested a volunteer for her mother, but they had never come through. Joyce vowed that she would never let that happen to another patient and family that was in her same situation and wanted to become a hospice volunteer to do just that.

Joyce began volunteering with us in summer 2006, since that time she has worked with a very special family who have demonstrated many trials and miracles in the end of life journey. Joyce has been by their side every moment. I encourage the volunteers to be creative in finding the needs of the patient and family, but again, Joyce has and continues to exceed this request.

In example, Joyce’s patient took a turn for the worst a few months back and we were unclear if she would last much longer, knowing this Joyce had an afghan she was making for her and quickly put in 12 hours a day working to get it done before she passed away. The patient has since rallied and Joyce continues to provide the family with homemade rolls each Sunday for dinner, companionship for several hours a week, and tireless dedication to the comfort and joy of this patient and her family.”