September 27, 2019
Sandy Oswald: EveryStep Hospice Honored Volunteer
Sandy Oswald has a long history of working in the healthcare industry, so it made sense that she'd seek out volunteer opportunities in the same realm.
Oswald, a Creston resident, has been an EveryStep Hospice volunteer for more than two years, offering support, companionship and hope to those facing life-limiting illnesses in the Creston and Mount Ayr areas.
She, 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.
“I became a volunteer because I feel it is an extension of what I did as a nurse,” Oswald said. “God gave me a gift and I want to share with others. I love the [Greater Regional Hospice Home] and hope I can give comfort to the patients and their families.”
Oswald, an army veteran, served from 1960 to 1963 before moving into the nursing field. She worked first as a nurse's aide, then as a registered nurse taking care of patients in a nursing home. When she left the nursing home setting she began turned to teaching nurses' aides.
She quickly found herself back in the nursing home setting, however, volunteering for EveryStep Hospice.
Oswald can often be found going above and beyond the call of duty as a volunteer, rearranging appointments in order make time for patients. In addition to visiting with EveryStep patients, Oswald bakes for Greater Regional Hospice Home so that families of patients can have something sweet whenever they need a break.
“Sandy is truly a gem, and we at EveryStep Hospice are so glad she is a volunteer for the Mount Ayr and Greater Regional Hospice Home team,” says Angela Dodge, EveryStep volunteer coordinator.
EveryStep Hospice is seeking more volunteers like Oswald in south-central Iowa. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Angela Dodge at 641-464-2088 or at adodge@everystep.org. Those interested in volunteering in EveryStep's other service areas are encouraged to fill out our volunteer interest form.