During my stint last year I was admittedly hooked. Volunteering becomes a part of who you are as a person, and it was probably one of the most humbling experiences of my life to date. Despite the fact that I worked at the hospice for only a short time, I quickly became part of the furniture and for many patients I, along with others, acted as a reprieve from the reality of their terminal conditions. Indeed, whenever I have mentioned my work at the hospice to friends I am greeted by the blanket "It must be so morbid!" response, however, these patients are some of the most positive and enthusiastic people I have ever met. They are, in spite of their health, quick to welcome you to become a small part of their life, and for the many who don't have regular family contact, time spent with volunteers provides valuable human comfort. 

It is this sense of love and belonging you can give to someone which spured me on to return again this summer. Today was my first day back, and I was overwhelmed by how many patients and staff remembered me. In 3 short months it is possible to make a huge impact, and although patients have sadly passed away I look forward to the joy I can bring to someone in my 4 free hours on a tuesday morning. It sounds simple, but thats because it is beautifully easy to make a big impact on someones life. I would urge anyone to get involved.