Johnson's journey with BCN began in May 2023. After she experienced the support and the deep value hospice provided to her parents, Johnson felt a calling to give back. Immediately immersing herself in training, including specialized 11th Hour training, her dedication knew no bounds. 

As a new volunteer, she adopted a nursing home, Bourbon Heights, where she pledged weekly visits to all hospice patients. Despite encountering a particularly grumpy patient known for pushing people away, Johnson remained steadfast. With patience and empathy, she gradually broke through his tough exterior, forging a bond over shared interests, particularly horses. Johnson's persistence and compassion provided him with a friend who refused to give up on him, especially during his declining health. 

Johnson's outreach extended beyond Bourbon Heights, as she started providing respite care to a dementia patient so that the patient’s caregiver could take a break, grocery shop, or attend personal appointments. Although the diagnosis mirrored her mother’s, Johnson embraced the opportunity to offer solace and support. Her empathetic presence not only comforted the patient but also served as a lifeline for the caregiver, since Johnson could empathize from her own experiences. 

Johnson continued to expand her volunteer efforts by becoming a trained 11th Hour volunteer. Her dedication ensures that no patient faces their final moments alone. By volunteering for shifts to sit with patients, she exemplifies the essence of compassion and companionship in the face of adversity. 

When BCN began to revise their volunteer training program, Johnson actively participated in refining the onboarding process, offering invaluable insights as a relatively new volunteer. Her unwavering belief in the transformative power of volunteerism underscores her commitment to excellence and the enduring legacy of compassion she seeks to cultivate. 

Join us in congratulating Susanne Johnson as the recipient of the 2024 Volunteer President’s Award. She stands as a beacon of hope and humanity, embodying the spirit of selflessness and empathy that defines BCN's mission. Her journey exemplifies the profound impact one individual can make through acts of kindness and unwavering dedication to serving others in their time of need. 

If you are interested in finding out how to volunteer with Bluegrass Care Navigators, please go to bgcarenav.org/volunteer.