Hospice volunteers find rewards

It’s the season for giving thanks, and volunteers who show their gratitude for what they have by serving others, often fine they are the ones whose lives are blessed.

Each week, Brigham Young University – Idaho student Chase Bryan visits 97 year old Mary Jones at The Gables Assisted Living in Shelley. Mary appreciates it.

“I like him because he’s nice,” Mary said.

Mostly, the two just sit and talk about stories from her past. Mary likes to recount her young days in Shelley, going to the movies with her dad.

“I just liked movies – spooky ones,” Mary tells Chase.

“I didn’t know that. You’ve been hiding that this whole time from me,” jokes Chase.

Chase explains why he became a hospice volunteer.

“I wanted to do something that wasn’t about me for once — just do something selfless,” Chase says.

“We have the need for a lot of volunteers,” Becky Hone, from Hand of Hope Hospice said. “There are so many people on hospice who are kind of lonely, who need help, who need a friend.”

It may seem like a little thing to come and visit and talk with a 97 year old, but Mary appreciates it.

“I think it’s good for people to talk to any of you, even if it’s only for five minutes,” Mary said.

Chase says it’s really Mary who is helping him.

“Every time I come here, I get away from all my problems that I think are so huge. Life just means more,” Chase said.

You can find volunteer opportunities in your community at justserve.org