Helping others through hospice

Lois Giesen, Amy Holden and Mary Turek have been volunteers for a combined 83 years. The three started with Queen of Peace Hospital in New Prague in 1988. The hospital is now Mayo Clinic Health System in New Prague and the three volunteer with Allina Home & Community Services’ hospice program.

“I wanted to recognize these ladies for everything they do,” said Diane Pieper, Volunteer Coordinator with Allina Home & Community Services. “They have supported hundreds of patients.”

The three were recognized during a brief ceremony at The Ettlin’s Cafe in New Prague on Saturday, June 10. Giesen estimated she has been volunteering for 27 years, while Holden and Turek have both been volunteers for 28 years.

Holden said she finds the work gratifying, while Turek said they get to help others. “I consider it a way of paying it forward,” said Giesen. She knows that sounds odd, but explained that her parents each had cancer and she had a son who died young. “And our faith says to help others,” she added.

Pieper said the hospice program is similar to the phrase “It takes a village.” She explained volunteers help families, by helping a loved one. While a volunteer is at the house, a family member can take care of grocery shopping or go in for a medical appointment. “They can do this knowing someone is there to help,” said Pieper. An in home volunteer can also help with chores.

“If you’ve gone through the experience yourself, you can relate,” said Holden.

Turek noted, “The families are grateful.”