Hospice volunteer honored

Larry Baldosier of Lockridge volunteers for HCI Hospice Care Services and has been recognized for his contributions by the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of Iowa.

Iowa has the second highest volunteer rate in the nation thanks to the 38 percent of Iowans who donate their time to brighten the lives of others.Volunteers are as essential to hospice care today as they were when they spearheaded the hospice movement more than 30 years ago.

Like many, Baldosier was inspired to volunteer five years ago after personally experiencing hospice when he lost his father and mother-in-law. Baldosier offers a comforting presence to patients while their caregivers take time to run errands.

?It makes you feel good,? Baldosier said. ?I always feel like I?m helping someone when I go to visit.?

?Larry has a wonderful sense of humor and a great laugh,? said Carolyn Dorothy, local HCI Care Services volunteer coordinator. ?Patients always feel comfortable around him and look forward to his visits.?

As a war veteran himself, Baldosier provides companionship and a listening ear to patients who have also served the country through HCI Care Services? Veteran-to-Veteran program.

?Some people like to talk about the war and others don?t,? said Baldosier. ?I never push the subject. If they want to talk about it, then great. If not, there are plenty of other things to talk about.?

?Larry is always willing to help out,? Dorothy said. ?He goes the extra mile and is the perfect example of a great volunteer.?

HCI Care Services, formerly Hospice of Central Iowa, is seeking more volunteers like Baldosier. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Dorothy at 319-385-4472.

Offering companionship, running errands and assisting with clerical duties are some of the volunteer opportunities available through HCI Care Services. Veterans interested in volunteering through the Veteran-to-Veteran volunteer program also are needed.