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Aveanna Hospice recently celebrated Volunteer Appreciation Month with a luncheon for volunteers and during this time recognized volunteers with 5, 10, and more years of service.

Celia Kelley, Aveanna Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, expressed her gratitude and said, “We are so fortunate to have several volunteers who have been willing to serve hospice patients for many years.”

Among those honored was Janet Brantley, who has volunteered with Aveanna Hospice for 13 years. She shared that her love for people and her desire to give back is what continues to motivate her service.

“When I started volunteering with Comfort Care, which is now Aveanna, I had just retired from being a school counselor,” Brantley said. “I wanted to do something to serve others. I have enjoyed having the opportunity to visit with patients and have conversations with them. I have met many lovely and interesting people, and they have enriched my life.”

Brantley often visits Aveanna patients at a local nursing home.

“It is always a joy to see her interact with them,” Kelley added.

Mrs. Kelley presented service pins to Brantley (13 years), Carla Mooney (12 years), Mary Brazzell (11 years), and Ginger Burdett (10 years). A 5+ year pin was also awarded to Summer Brown, who began volunteering with Aveanna Hospice as a Junior Volunteer at the age of 14 and has now served for 7 years.

“Volunteers are an integral part of the hospice team,” Kelley said. “They are a comforting presence for patients and their families.”

Aveanna’s volunteers provide a wide range of support, from reading and singing to crafting, friendly visits, and bedside companionship. They also create handmade gifts and craft projects to share with patients and families.

“We have volunteers who provide specialty services such as hair care, and others who share their artistic talents,” Kelley added. “Our patients and staff truly appreciate the care, creativity, and compassion our volunteers bring.”

For more information call 334-427-4000.