Whether it’s supportive companionship at the bedside, or laughter-filled visits, volunteers at the Bridge Hospice in Quinte are special, and they were honoured for their work at the organization’s annual general meeting in July. Susanne Langford, a retired nurse who began volunteering in 2015, was chosen as the first recipient of the Ken Partridge Volunteer Award. “Her compassion and keen wit always help our residents, families and visitors feel right at home,” says Kerri-Anne Wilson, director of clinical services and operations. Her dedication, attention to detail, and ability to make things happen has impressed the hospice’s administrative staff and medical professionals, Wilson adds. Langford provides hands-on resident care, offers orientation to new resident care volunteers, supports hospice admissions by meeting new residents and families, and also supports administrative staff as needed. “Our volunteers play a vital role in our continued success, and always have been – and will remain – at the heart of everything we do,” says Wilson. (Brighton Independent, June 25)