HOSPICE OF WILKES REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER NEEDS VOLUNTEER SUPPORT

1/24/2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: LAURA HUBBARD

Phone: 903-7713

January 24, 2006

NORTH WILKESBORO, NC - Hospice of Wilkes Regional Medical Center (WRMC) has announced a February volunteer training program on grief and end of life care. The course dates are February 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 and 23 from 9:00 to 12 noon at the Wellness Center of WRMC.

The training program prepares non-medical volunteers to support terminally ill patients and their families. The program includes sessions on care and comfort measures for the terminally ill, the spiritual aspects of dying, funeral planning, bereavement and dealing with grief. Information on preparing a living will and Health Care Power of Attorney, also called Advance Directives, is part of the program. Attendance at all six sessions meets the national 18-hour training requirement for Hospice volunteers.

Being a Hospice volunteer is great way to become involved and give back to our community. A volunteer can benefit patients by helping with errands, mowing the lawn, or visiting regularly to provide companionship and emotional comfort. Volunteers provide essential encouragement to families dealing with grief and loss.

The Hospice philosophy is to provide comfort and care for terminally ill patients and their families in a familiar and secure setting. Volunteers are an essential part of this special care, bringing emotional, spiritual and psychological support for those facing the end of life.

To register for the volunteer training program, or to obtain more information, contact Laura Hubbard, Volunteer Coordinator for Hospice, at 903-7713. Please register by Friday, February 3, as class size is limited.