DWDC Spotlights: Volunteer end-of-life companionship
Webinars | May 20, 2026
Everyone deserves to have someone at their side when death is soon — and thanks to compassionate volunteers across Canada, they don’t have to. Dying With Dignity Canada is delighted to shine the spotlight on two incredible programs offered through Palliative Manitoba and Hospice Calgary. We walked through what to expect from a volunteer companion, where these programs are available, and how they can support a patient or their loved ones with their emotional needs in the final stages of life.
Speaker
Sophie MacDonald BA, is the Program Coordinator for the Living with Advanced Illness Centre. Her lived experience as a caregiver and Companion Volunteer cultivated a path toward her current role with Hospice Calgary. Sophie hopes to continue contributing to the Palliative care field, reducing barriers to access, and fostering person-centered support for individuals and families navigating advanced illness.
Kathleen Williamson brings over three decades of experience in social services, with a focus on case management and clinical supervision. She holds a degree in Psychology and has dedicated her career to the social service and health care sectors. As the Volunteer Visitation Coordinator at Palliative Manitoba, Kathleen connects individuals at end of life with companions and leads volunteer training programs in palliative care, grief, and bereavement support. An advocate for dignity, independence, and end-of-life choice, Kathleen is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to compassionate care and support.
