|
DEDICATION
Dick
Dick Watson's steady volunteerism for 19 years is an example of how a committed individual can strengthen the foundation of Midwest CareCenter … in quiet, yet profound ways.
Losing his first and then second wife to cancer has given Dick Watson, 87, insights into the dying process to which few people can relate. His first wife of 35 years, Dorothy, died in 1979 from cancer, and Dick described her final months as a frustrating, harrowing experience. "She lingered in pain with no skilled help. I felt it was a brutal way to go."
Conversely, his second wife of nine years, Mary Ellen, experienced a death from cancer that was considerably more dignified. Nurses and social workers cared for Mary Ellen in the couple's home. "They were so helpful and really made her comfortable," Dick recalled. "I noticed the difference."
Today, Dick reflects on his loved ones' deaths with strength and humility. Though his life has been marked with times of tragedy, he is grateful to have had "three superb wives … I won't brag about quantity, but I will brag about quality," he said, modestly but with a smile. He feels blessed to have Connie, whom he married in 1990; two wonderful sons who live in the northern suburbs of Chicago with their extended families; a satisfying career in law and human resources management; and now in retirement, vocational involvement as an arbitrator for the State of Illinois and volunteer consultant with the Executive Service Corps of Chicago.
The compassionate care that his second wife received during her final days left an indelible impression on Dick. He wanted to help others receive the same type of care. So he signed up for volunteer training with Midwest CareCenter in 1990, shortly after Mary Ellen's death. And he's been visiting with hospice patients and families ever since.
As Dick recollected his volunteer experiences over the past 19 years, he spoke fondly of certain patients with whom he developed friendships, birthday parties he attended as well as trainings and in-services he found useful. He has visited patients in homes, nursing homes and on the hospice inpatient unit. "Dick is always reliable and extremely generous with his time," commented Margaret Xanthopoulos, manager of the volunteer program.
His dedication to hospice also has benefited Midwest CareCenter financially. As a liaison for the Kenilworth Union Church, Dick has helped direct a portion of the congregation's annual charitable giving to Midwest CareCenter—donations total more than $127,000 between 1980 and 2008.
When making patient visits, which he does weekly, Dick said he "tries to adapt to the patient. Sometimes, you sit and hum a song. Or maybe play cards or watch TV. Talk if he or she wants to talk. Basically you just do your best to blend in."
Despite his desire to "blend in," Dick's thoughtful, intelligent and kindhearted nature stands out in the organization's history of volunteerism and support. He has quietly become part of the foundation of Midwest CareCenter—an individual who is integral to carrying out our mission.
|
