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“A life not lived for others is not a life.” Mother Teresa

Samaritan House is an ecumenical end-of-life care ministry coordinated by Saint Peter’s Catholic Parish in Wellsboro. Samaritan House began serving the community in February 1998. Since then, hundreds have chosen to end their time on earth in a private setting surrounded by family and friends.

I met with Linda Sampson, Michele Combs, Anna Dunlap, Coleen Evert, and Laurie Coffee at the Samaritan House to learn about their work and the need for volunteers. All of the steering committee members are doing this work willingly and voluntarily.

Anna Dunlap is the current Medical Facilitator. Her responsibilities are as follows: At this time, she reviews applications from a medical perspective and assesses volunteers’ ability to care for applicants. She ensures that necessary medical supplies/equipment is available and set up for each guest based on needs. (i.e., oxygen, air mattress).

She also liaises between volunteers/ medical directors and hospice nurses/aides as needed— reviews medication and documentation as required, and provides feedback when appropriate. Anna is a resource to volunteers about medical questions and concerns. When possible, she will be present at admission or visit soon after to assess the guest.

Importantly she will guide volunteers about the time of death and what to do. All medical decision-making is referred to the hospice/physician.

Coleen Evert has been a volunteer for many years and shares how you receive more than you give by supporting a guest and their family at the Samaritan House. She is passionate about providing care so the family can come and support their loved one in a peaceful, loving atmosphere of love.

In the video portion of the broadcast, I spoke with Laurie Coffee, the volunteer recruiter. Her encouragement to us to become involved can be seen and understood by watching the video portion of this broadcast.

For more information about the opportunity to become a volunteer for Samaritan House, please call Linda Sampson at 570-404-2180. For testimonials, details visit their website at
http://www.samaritanhouseofwellsboro.com

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Facilitators:
Laurie Coffee (Volunteer Recruiter)
Anna Dunlap (Medical Facilitator)
Linda Sampson (Volunteer Scheduler)
Members:
Michele Comes
Lillian Fox
Coleen Evert
Mel Rupert (House/Maintenance)
Julie Stager
Fr. Joseph Mosley (Pastor)

Personal note: Years ago, I read a passage in a book about Mother Teresa’s care of the dying that opened my heart to want to be there for my family at their holy moment of passing into eternity. God granted me my heart’s desire to be with my mom and dad. I know this ministry will bless the families who have guests there and those who choose to volunteer.

Thanks to https://dunhamswellsboro.com for curating Sara Vogt’s outfit on today’s broadcast.