In hospice care, volunteers often talk about the meaningful connections they form with patients and families. But sometimes, the most unexpected gift is the connection they form with each other.

For three SSM Health at Home Hospice – Fond du Lac volunteers – Ann Schob, Lynn Moon, and Judy Michels – a shared calling to serve became the foundation for a friendship that strengthens both their work and their lives.

Ann and Lynn have volunteered with SSM Health at Home Hospice – Fond du Lac for more than eight years, long after first meeting as neighbors and exercise-class companions. When Ann retired, the pair decided it was time to give back in a more intentional way and joined the SSM Health at Home Hospice – Fond du Lac Volunteer program.

Judy joined later, after recognizing Lynn in a volunteer photo and reconnecting through the same exercise class. A few workouts and warm conversations later, she signed up to serve as an SSM Health at Home Hospice Home of Hope meal server, a role she has now filled for nearly three years. The three women quickly formed a bond they describe as dependable, natural, and deeply supportive.

All three volunteers agree that the gratitude expressed by patients and families is one of the most fulfilling parts of the work. “I just can’t get over how grateful all of the patients are,” Judy shares, to which Lynn adds, “And the staff.”

Their shared sentiment is simple: every person they encounter at the SSM Health at Home Hospice Home of Hope is kind, welcoming, and deeply appreciative. “It really is a great place to give back, together,” Ann reflects.

When asked about memories that stand out, the women grew reflective. Both Judy and Lynn recall moments of offering what they call a patient’s final gift. 

“You don’t know how special that final gift is, until you are giving it,” Lynn shares, emphasizing how meaningful – and humbling – these acts of service can be.

“Hospice can be a scary word,” Ann acknowledges, “but the Hospice Home of Hope is a very warm and welcoming place.” Her advice is heartfelt and simple: “If you want to feel good while you are volunteering, this is the place to be.”

The trio says they never expected their friendship to become such an essential part of their volunteer experience. “When I started volunteering, I never would have guessed I’d be here with these two ladies, partaking in a news article,” Lynn jokes.

Their bond doesn’t just enrich their own experience. It serves as a model of compassion within the community. Together, they hope their friendship shows others what’s possible when people come together in service.

There are many wonderful opportunities for those interested in volunteering with SSM Health at Home Hospice, including providing companionship and emotional support, veteran recognition, pet therapy, assisting with spiritual care and serving meals at the Hospice Home of Hope, and other patient and non-patient contact opportunities.

SSM Health at Home Hospice provides an individualized training program designed to equip volunteers for the varied types of service. SSM Health at Home Hospice in Fond du Lac and Green Lake areas are currently looking for more volunteers who are placed in their own geographic areas.

Being a hospice volunteer is a rewarding experience that allows individuals to share their gifts and talents, grow spiritually, learn new skills, belong to a caring team with a common goal, and much more.

To learn more or schedule training, contact Hospice Volunteer Coordinators Betty Walleser at 920-924-4662 or [email protected] or Kristin Moderow at 920-294-4481 or [email protected].

For three SSM Health at Home Hospice – Fond du Lac volunteers – Judy Michels, Ann Schob, and Lynn Moon – a shared calling to serve became the foundation for a friendship that strengthens both their work and their lives.