A Family Legacy of Care

July 2026

Some families share stories about work, vacations, or grandchildren around the dinner table. For the Vandervecht family, conversations often turn to Erie Shores Hospice.

What began more than a decade ago with Homer and Betty looking for a meaningful way to give back in retirement has grown into a family tradition of compassion. Today, several members of their family volunteer with Hospice – across many different roles, but all with the same purpose: helping patients and their loved ones feel cared for, supported, and never alone.

Homer has been a familiar face at the Reception desk since Erie Shores Hospice first opened its doors in April 2016.

“We were volunteering at Erie Shores HealthCare when we heard about the new Hospice being built in Leamington,” he recalls. “We were actually here the morning of April 6, 2016, before there were any residents. I’ve been at the Reception desk every Monday morning ever since.”

For Betty, becoming a volunteer was a way to give back after retirement.

“We were busy golfing and travelling,” she says. “But it felt like we were doing things just for us. I wanted us to do something for others.”

As a Personal Care Assistant, Betty has discovered that some of the most meaningful moments are often the simplest.

“I remember a resident who was non-verbal and needed help at mealtimes. Sometimes she would close her mouth tightly shut and refuse to eat. I found that if I simply held her hand, she would relax and eat. She would look me right in the eye and smile. Even the staff noticed how much she looked forward to our visits. Holding her hand, and then seeing that smile – we just connected.”

Stories like Betty’s remind us that hospice care isn’t always about grand gestures. Often, it’s found in quiet moments of comfort, dignity, and human connection.

Inspired by Homer and Betty’s experiences, their son Richard and daughter-in-law Carol eventually found their own places at Hospice. Richard tends the gardens, while Carol welcomes families through home-cooked meals prepared in the kitchen.

“Betty and Homer would talk about all the wonderful things they were doing at Hospice,” says Carol. “They always seemed so happy and fulfilled. They inspired us to join them, and now the whole family volunteers.”

Although each family member serves in a different way, they’ve all discovered that every role contributes to the comfort and care families experience.

As one of the first people visitors meet during his reception shifts, Homer has watched countless families arrive carrying uncertainty.

“I’ve seen so many people come through the doors overwhelmed and almost afraid because they don’t know what to expect,” he says. “They’re used to busy healthcare hallways, and then they come here and see the peaceful spaces, the beautiful family areas, and the patient suites. You can almost see them relax. Many people had no idea what Hospice was really about until they walked through those doors.”

He’s also experienced Hospice from a deeply personal perspective.

“One of my longtime volunteer friends suddenly became ill and was admitted here. I was so sad to lose her, but so grateful Hospice was here for her during her final weeks.”

Outside, Richard sees Hospice from another perspective.

“I don’t interact with patients as much because I’m usually working in the gardens,” he says. “But I’ve watched people step outside for a break, walk through the gardens, and you can see them breathe a little easier.”

One afternoon, his volunteer role led to an unexpected reunion.

“I heard someone call my name. It was the family of my best friend from grade school, someone who had moved away, and I hadn’t seen in 20 years. Later that day we spent time together talking like old times. Before we finished, he said, ‘You inspire me, Rich.’ He told me he was going to start volunteering at his local Hospice in Cambridge.”

For Carol, the kitchen has become much more than a place to prepare meals.

“As soon as I walk through the door, there’s this feeling of joy,” she says. “Whatever’s going on in your own life stays outside. I love meeting families and visitors – we talk about everything.”

She remembers one husband who visited the kitchen each day to choose treats for his wife, who especially loved ice cream.

“We discovered we were both from the same area and became the best buddies. He told me how he met his wife and that they’d been married for 61 years. They had such a beautiful love story.”

It’s moments like these that continue to surprise Carol.

“People sometimes think Hospice is only a sad place, and of course there are difficult moments,” she says. “But there’s also so much unexpected joy. Volunteers, staff, physicians – we’re all part of one team, supporting families and supporting each other. There’s so much affirmation and appreciation.”

Betty believes that feeling is what keeps all four of them coming back.

“We all want to help people feel as good as they can and live their best possible days while they’re here. To meet them where they are. To be part of their journey with them and their families – it’s such a privilege.”

“The Vandervecht family’s story is a wonderful example of the many ways volunteers make a difference at Hospice,” says Katharen Bortolin, Executive Director. “Every one of our volunteers bring their own gifts, experiences, and compassion to those we serve. Whether they’re welcoming visitors, preparing meals, tending our gardens, providing support, or in countless other roles, they help create the sense of comfort, dignity, and connection that defines hospice care. We are incredibly grateful to the Vandervecht family – and to every volunteer who chooses to share their time and heart with our community.”