September 26, 2019

Phyllis Schwaninger: EveryStep Hospice Honored Volunteer

For the past six years, Phyllis Schwaninger has provided support to our Council Bluffs EveryStep Hospice team, as well as companionship and hope to patients facing life-limiting illnesses.

“Three of my sisters received hospice care at the end of their lives, and I thought this was a great way to give back,” she says of becoming an EveryStep Hospice volunteer.

A Glenwood resident, Schwaninger, along with more than 40 other volunteers from across the state, were recognized for their contributions at Hospice and Palliative Care Association of Iowa’s annual honored volunteer ceremony recently.   

Schwaninger, who visits patients in their homes whenever needed, spends the majority of her volunteer time assisting the nurses, bereavement counselors, and other office staff at our Council Bluffs office. 

“I really enjoy the camaraderie of the gals and guys in the office. I feel good about helping.” she says of making copies, answering phones, and other tasks.

Additionally, Schwaninger takes on the office’s “tuck in” calls, ensuring that patients have everything they need to be comfortable before the weekend.

 “It’s a lot easier than you think,” Schwaninger says of volunteering. “Most people are very nice. It's not like you have to know what the nurse knows. You're just being a friend. You should give it a try.” 

EveryStep Hospice is seeking more volunteers like Schwaninger in southwest Iowa. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to fill out our volunteer interest form.