 Retired flight attendant Laurie Quigley has spent much of her life making sure other people are comfortable. So, when the Winter Haven resident took an early retirement from the airline about four years ago, she decided she would volunteer to help provide comfort and companionship to hospice patients. As a Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care volunteer, Quigley will sometimes walk a patient’s dog or provide respite care by sitting with a patient while the caretaker takes a break. However, Quigley says she receives her greatest reward when she is a “vigil volunteer,” tending to a patient who is in the last hours of life. Quigley credits the Cornerstone Hospice team for extensive training she received to recognize and understand the final stages of death. Quigley says she focuses on being “present” to the patient needs by speaking with him or her and ensuring they are comfortable.
“Sitting vigil is an opportunity to reassure family members and even the patients that they are not alone. Death can be frightening for some people and I work to create a sense of calmness and comfort at this difficult time.” said Quigley. “We know that hearing is the last sense to go and if family members are distressed, I coach them on saying ‘goodbye,’ ‘I love you’ or ‘I’m sorry.’ I’ve found these to be the most important words for the patients and their loved ones who may need closure.” “It is truly an honor to be invited into this intimate part of one’s life. I like to think that I am preparing them for departure,” said Quigley. Polk County residents seeking personal rewards by helping hospice patients can sign up for the upcoming Cornerstone Hospice volunteer training scheduled on Wednesday, July 19, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at 2590 Havendale Blvd. NW in Winter Haven. Volunteers must undergo a background check and the training and can learn more by calling (863) 291-5567 or emailing [email protected]. About Cornerstone Hospice Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., a not-for-profit, community organization since 1984, provides comfort and care to Central Florida families experiencing life-limiting illnesses. Over 7,000 people in Lake, Sumter, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties benefit from Cornerstone programs each year. Enhanced patient and family care is made possible through the generous support of individuals and groups. For more information, to donate, or to volunteer, call 866-742-6655 or visit www.cornerstonehospice.org.
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