Volunteers Ensure No Patient Faces Death Alone in Hospices

A program called No One Dies Alone is offering comfort to patients in their final moments when no family or friends are present. Volunteers like Tammy Skubal sit with those nearing the end of life, ensuring they do not face it alone. The initiative was started after a patient's heartbreaking request to a nurse years ago.

The program began when Sandra Clarke, a nurse, was asked by a dying patient to stay with them. After the patient passed away alone, Clarke decided to create a way to prevent others from experiencing the same loneliness. Today, No One Dies Alone operates in at least two US locations: Hillcrest Hospice and PeaceHealth Oregon Home and Community Hospice in Oregon.

Volunteers receive training before sitting with patients. Sam Cradduck, an expert from Aging Untold, teaches them how to recognise signs of approaching death and keep patients at ease. Tammy Skubal, one of the volunteers, finds meaning in holding a patient's hand and honouring their life in those last hours. The program steps in when no loved ones are available. Its simple but powerful mission ensures that even strangers can provide companionship when it matters most.

No One Dies Alone continues to grow, with trained volunteers offering presence and dignity to patients in their final moments. The program's impact relies on compassionate individuals willing to sit, listen, and hold a hand. For now, it remains available in select US hospices, filling a vital gap for those facing death without family nearby.