New group of volunteers bring music and culture to Hospice Cape Breton

A fiddle, a piano, three singers and a highland dancer. All the features of a traditional Cèilidh — rich with music, culture and good cheer. 

That was the scene at Hospice Cape Breton when a group of new volunteers came together to host their first volunteer music showcase for patients, families and staff to help kick off the holiday season. 

“It’s nice to offer an opportunity for the volunteers to use their talents. When you see the patients tap their toes and sing along and chat, it’s wonderful to be able to do this for them,” says Lisa McNeil Campbell, palliative care volunteers program lead. 

And behind each musical note is a volunteer with a personal reason for getting involved. 

For Mary Lou Ford, Melanie Bonnell and Olivia Burke, seeing the impact hospice care had on loved ones during end-of-life care inspired them to give back. 

“My sister was a patient here. And the care and concern and compassion are just wonderful so I promised her before she passed that I would volunteer,” says Mary Lou. “The staff made my sister’s final moments the best they could be, and it leaves an impression on you. I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”

Like Mary Lou, Olivia saw first-hand the impact volunteers can make, as two of her grandparents received hospice care. “I wanted to play a small role in someone else’s journey. What patients are dealing with is hard but it’s rewarding to be able to put a smile on their face.”

And she certainly did that by sharing her craft of highland dancing during the event. “Music and dancing are such a large part of our culture. It’s nice to be able to give patients access to that while they’re here,” she says. 

Melanie was motivated to volunteer by a friend who received hospice care. For her, spending time with patients is a chance to share her time and talents. 

“We all get busy with everyday things. But being here gives you a chance to slow down and spend some time with patients and brighten their day,” she says.  

‘They want joy and we try to find ways to do that every day’

Situated near Cape Breton Regional Hospital and part of the Nova Scotia Health palliative care network, Hospice Cape Breton offers a welcoming environment with 10 patient rooms designed to provide the comforts of home. Regular programming and events are organized by staff and volunteers, though this is the first time musical entertainment was provided entirely by volunteers.  

“We try as often as we can to get local musicians in to entertain,” says Lisa. “The days can be long for patients, and although this is a hospice, they are very much alive while they’re here. They want joy and we try to find ways to do that every day.” 

The event came about organically when Lisa learned that a group of new volunteers enjoyed singing, dancing and playing various instruments. The idea to share their talent with patients, families and staff grew from there. 

“It feels nice to spread a little bit of Christmas cheer,” says Alyssa Burke, a volunteer who sang during the event. “Singing brings people together. There are carols that people know and love, so it was great to hear patients singing along and enjoying themselves.” 

A strong sense of community

While the singing and entertainment continued, a family member arrived and quietly handed out gifts to each patient. A special touch to the day. Lisa says kind gestures are common.

“Family and friends get to know one another when they’re here. They become close. Everyone is going through something, not necessarily the same thing, but they’re facing difficulties. They support one another.” 

And that sense of community was on full display during the event. 

As a new volunteer, Molly Baxendale was inspired by spending time together with other volunteers, working together to bring holiday cheer to patients. 

“It’s a chance for all of us to grow our connection with each other and patients. You can feel the sense of community and that’s what makes Hospice Cape Breton so special.” 

To learn more about volunteering with the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton, click here.