That is where each of us can be a breath of fresh air. We can bring the outdoors in. We can bring the holidays to them. Whether it be bringing colorful leaves in the fall or potted daffodils in the spring, wearing seasonal clothing or providing seasonal treats that they can share with their visitors, you can make their last seasons enjoyable ones.
I like to grow baby pumpkins and draw a silly face on each one with the words, “Happy Fall Y’all!”
One patient had raised animals as a girl and was delighted when my kids and I brought our baby chicks for a short visit one spring.
In February, I brought a recent widower a card and helium balloons and after he signed the valentine card to his beloved wife, we released it to fly up to heaven.
What would you want if it were your last season or holiday? My Grandma desperately wanted a home grown, vine-ripened tomato. It was such a simple desire, but one she couldn’t fulfill herself from her facility.
Of course, we must be sensitive to allergies, religious observances and personal preferences. Some people may not enjoy Halloween for instance. Start by asking questions: “I saw my first robin of the year today. What is your favorite part of spring?” or “Do you have a favorite Halloween memory or costume?” or “How does your family celebrate Thanksgiving?” Questions like these enable you to get insight into what they cherish so that you can respond accordingly.
Never underestimate the value in what you do. You do make a difference in these people’s final days. You are fabulous, faithful, focused volunteers who forget your own troubles and needs for a time and bring a breath of fresh air as you lose yourselves in service to others. That’s Inspiration!
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