During National Volunteer Month, we honor and celebrate the more than 1,300 volunteers throughout Ohio who help to make a difference in the lives of those who we are privileged to serve. Volunteers play vital roles as members of the hospice care team. Just like our patients, hospice volunteers bring a wide range of skills, cultural backgrounds and beliefs, offering these experiences and more to fulfill our mission. 

Jackie Fry is celebrating 17 years of service as a volunteer with Ohio’s Hospice. She joined Ohio’s Hospice with an interest in helping others after a friend encouraged her to attend a hospice volunteer training. Since then, Jackie has helped to provide care for patients living at home or in care facilities and provided care to patients near the end of life. 

Jackie said her favorite project was working with patients on legacy projects, where she recorded videos of what patients wanted to share, edited the footage, and preserved the video and memories for their loved ones. 

“Being a volunteer has impacted my life in so many ways. Just going through the training teaches you so much and broadens your perspective,” Jackie said. “I know that I am a better listener and much more comfortable stepping into situations to help in any way I can without overreaching. And sometimes just being there truly is tremendously important and impactful.” 

In 2022, Jackie moved to Prescot, Arizona, and thought her time with Ohio’s Hospice would end; however, she has been able to help the team with administrative projects remotely. “Most people are not good at facing terminal illness and death,” Jackie said. “Ohio’s Hospice has a team of competent, caring, open individuals who step into those situations with knowledge, understanding, and compassion. I know firsthand what a tremendous difference Ohio’s Hospice makes to so many people every day. It is an honor to be a tiny part of that team.” 

Thank you, Jackie, for your service and continued support of our mission! 

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering at Ohio’s Hospice, visit: www.OhiosHospice.org/Volunteer