Honoring Our Hospice Volunteers: Joan Courter
In the tapestry of compassionate care, our hospice volunteers weave threads of love, kindness, and empathy, forming the very heart of our program. Their selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to serving others illuminate the path for patients and families during life’s most challenging moments. Today, we shine a spotlight on one such extraordinary volunteer, Joan Courter, from our Gaylord, Northern Michigan hospice program.
Joan’s journey as a Compassus volunteer began with a heart full of love and a desire to make a difference. In her role in patient care at facilities, Joan consistently goes above and beyond, touching the lives of those she serves in profound ways.
One of Joan’s remarkable qualities is her ability to connect with patients, especially those who have difficulty communicating. She will read, sing, hold hands, and offer comforting touches, ensuring that every patient feels seen, heard, and valued. Joan’s compassion knows no bounds, and she takes a special interest in patients who may not have family nearby. For these individuals, Joan becomes a beacon of light, visiting them regularly, spending quality time, and offering companionship and care.
But Joan’s acts of kindness extend far beyond the confines of a facility. At home, she dedicates countless hours to putting together projects and cards with her grandsons, spreading love and joy wherever she goes. Her warmth, kindness, and genuine concern for others shine brightly, enveloping all those she encounters in a blanket of comfort and compassion.
One touching example of Joan’s compassionate spirit occurred when a patient expressed a desire to bring the feeling of spring into her room. Without hesitation, Joan made it happen, infusing the space with the sights and sounds of the season, bringing joy and delight to her patient’s heart.
Joan is not just a volunteer – she is an ambassador for Compassus, embodying our ‘Care for Who I am’ philosophy with every action and interaction. Her dedication to compassionate care and unwavering commitment to our mission are truly inspiring.
We are immensely grateful to have Joan as a cherished member of the Compassus team. Her presence brings comfort, her actions bring joy, and her love knows no bounds. Thank you, Joan, for your tireless dedication and for being a shining example of the true heart of Compassus.
If Joan’s story has touched your heart and you’re interested in becoming a Compassus volunteer, we invite you to join us in our mission to make a difference in the lives of patients and families.
Together, let’s continue to celebrate and honor the incredible volunteers who are the heartbeat of Compassus.
