Palliative care volunteer Betty Williams opens up about her 32 years experience for National Volunteers Week
A 91-year-old woman who began volunteering in palliative care 32 years ago has spoken about the grief that inspired her to get into the space.
South East
Don't miss out on the headlines from South East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
A 91-year-old woman who was inspired to help others in their palliative care journey after her own loss, is being celebrated alongside thousands of other volunteers working to make our communities a better place.
Dandenong’s Betty Williams first started volunteering in palliative care after two of her friends were diagnosed with terminal illnesses and she’s still giving back 32 years later.
“After seeing the care that was given to my dear friends and their loved ones before and after their passing, I was really amazed,” she said.
“After they died, I wanted to give back in some way in appreciation for what they’d done for my friends.”
Ms Williams continued to volunteer for the next 32 years, assisting and guiding people through their own grief and loss, even when she herself was experiencing it.
“When my daughter was diagnosed with cancer in 2003, I’d already been a volunteer for quite a few years,” she said.
“When she did die, I was no different to anyone else – my entire world fell apart.”
Ms Williams persevered despite being unable to drive, to assist her clients and the patients in any way that she could.
“I wasn’t sure how I’d go about it when I first started because I didn’t drive,” she said.
“I learnt along the way, I know just about every bus route in Melbourne, and I also did a lot of walking.”
Assisting with things from grocery shopping, giving full-time carers a break and even just having a coffee with patients, Ms Williams said that volunteering in palliative care has “enriched her life.”
“It’s really a privilege to be welcomed into homes and families, to share the grief path with them,” she said.
“It will enrich your life. We give our time, but we get much more back.”
“They teach you what life is all about. Grab it with two hands, don’t waste it.”
Ms Williams volunteers with Palliative Care South East (PCSE) based in Narre Warren, and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2002 for her work in the sector.
“I was very humbled to receive the OAM,” she said.
“It’s a day I’ll never forget.”
Ms Williams encouraged anyone thinking about volunteering in the palliative care space to “give it a go”.
“Don’t hesitate. If you’ve got the time, no matter how small, just give it,” she said.
“There will be tears, but there is also laughter and many smiles. You’ll never regret a day that you give.”
“I’ve been doing this for 32 years, and if I could do it all again, I would.”
If you’re interested in volunteering with PCSE, you can find out more information here.
gemma.scerri@news.com.au
