WHEN Irene Blank’s husband became terminally ill six years ago, she felt as though her whole world had collapsed.

In her darkest hours, the Keilor Downs resident turned to palliative care nurses for support to get through the difficult days.

When her husband passed away three years later, Ms Blank began picking up the pieces of her own life.

“It was a very difficult time but at the same time it was so enlightening,” Ms Blank said.

“It was the first time I had been touched by death and I learned a lot about life and about myself through what I went through.”

Inspired by her own experiences, Ms Blank decided to volunteer as a palliative carer to help others who were going through the same thing.

“I just felt the need to give back to the organisation that helped me so much,” Ms Blank said.

Three years on and volunteering remains an important part of Ms Blank’s life.

She visits and spends time with terminally ill patients, allowing their carers to have a few hours off each week.

Although it can be emotionally draining, Ms Blank says the position is equally rewarding.

“I know how difficult it can be for people to deal with terminal illness, not just for the patient but also for their carers.

“By doing this I get to see first hand what an impact I have on people’s lives and it’s very rewarding,” she said.

Ms Blank said many people were reluctant to become a palliative carer because of the nature of the work.

“I think people are afraid of confronting death.

“I was nervous the first time I volunteered but once you meet the patient you never look back.

“I can’t stress enough how rewarding and worthwhile it is.”

Mercy Palliative Care in Sunshine is searching for more caring volunteers like Ms Blank to provide services to clients across the West.

The organisation has 83 volunteers who are given extensive training and support to perform their role.

Anyone wishing to volunteer for a few hours a week is urged to call 9364 9777.