Sakura House celebrates volunteer, recipient of provincial award during volunteer week

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VON Sakura House is celebrating the accomplishments and volunteerism of one volunteer who goes above and beyond – and was recognized with a provincial award for her work.

Pat Csinos started volunteering at VON Sakura House in 2014 on the suggestion of her sister-in law. At first, Csinos said she resisted the idea, apprehensive of saying the wrong thing to residents during such a sensitive and difficult time  – but later revisited the idea, and quickly dived into volunteering at Sakura House.

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Now, Csinos has been recognized with a Hospice Palliative Care Ontario award – the 2020 June Callwood Award that recognizes volunteers who demonstrate generosity, compassion and a commitment to excellence.

“Pat is a very gentle person, and I couldn’t think of a more deserving volunteer than Pat to receive this award. Pat always goes above and beyond and puts her patients and families needs first. It is truly a blessing to have her as a volunteer,” said Janine Jackson, the care and service manager at Sakura House.

Csinos started her volunteering as a personal care assistant – helping residents and their families with the extra touches, such as providing company at meals and time outside. She then quickly became involved in Sakura House’s memorial services, holiday meals and overnight respite. She also helped out with the Handbags and Hiking for Hospice fundraisers and, during the pandemic, began volunteering as a one-on-one bereavement counsellor.

The June Callwood award would typically be presented at the Hospice Palliative Care Ontario annual conference in Toronto but, as the conference was cancelled during the pandemic, Sakura House staff presented the award to Csinos in a small ceremony at the hospice last week.

“My work with families and patients is a true privilege. There is an emotional intimacy in being with someone at the end of their life. They have had so many losses already – loss of independence, loss of health,” Csinos said. “I am drawn to speak with them about their losses. Sometimes it is easier for them to talk to a stranger, so they don’t burden their family. They can find peace”

This week is National Volunteer Week, and VON Sakura House is celebrating each of its more than 500 volunteers for their dedication and passion throughout the year. You can find more information about VON and Sakura House at vonsakurahouse.com, and volunteer opportunities at vonoxford.ca.