Every week for the last ten years, Gerard Luyckx has brought solace to people in their last moments of life.  As a volunteer with Hospice Wellington, Gerard “works quietly to bring comfort to people when needed.”

Before he began to volunteer with Hospice, Gerard’s wife fought and lost a battle with cancer. Although at the time it was hard to accept help, Gerard realized he needed support and began to receive two visits every day from caring people in his community.  After his wife passed away, Gerard reflected on all the help and support he had received during the last months of his wife’s life.

“I realized I had been given so much, I wanted to pay back,” says Gerard.

Some people he visits just want to talk about what is on their mind.  For others, Gerard brings an opportunity to get out of the house for a walk or a drive in the country.  Others reminisce about the past and share stories about the happy and sad times in their lives.

“You share things with each other,” adds Gerard, speaking about the intimate bond that he forms with the people he visits.

He says that most of the time he listens because by listening he learns more about the people and their needs. Every person is different. The time he gives is not always tragic. There is lots of good too. Sometimes he brings humour to people; sometimes a different outlook.

“You get to know people in such an amicable way. You find beautiful things.”

And sometimes, “there are no words, no verbal communication, but you need to be compassionate and understanding.”

Your donations to United Way of Guelph & Wellington support the work of Hospice Wellington, bringing comfort to people and their families when they need it most.