A local volunteer helping patients and families through grief, uncertainty and trauma is being celebrated during National Volunteer Week. Sandra Hill, who serves as a volunteer hospital chaplain with Carinity at Redland Hospital, provides pastoral care and emotional support to people across the Redlands community.
“I am part of the chaplaincy team providing pastoral care over the entire hospital, from the birthing ward to end of life,” Sandra explains.
“My role entails visiting patients and extending pastoral care to them and their families. I offer prayer when appropriate and am involved in memorial services and interaction with hospital staff.
“I help patients and sometimes their families navigate fear, grief and uncertainty as I offer a calming presence – especially when patients receive a terminal diagnosis or unexpected complications and trauma.”
Sandra says being a Carinity volunteer hospital chaplain is “profoundly gratifying.”
“I enjoy meeting people and the privilege of hearing stories and walking alongside those who are sometimes going through deep valleys in their lives – offering a compassionate and human connection to people during their most vulnerable and isolating moments,” Sandra said.
“Often, pastoral care in a hospital environment brings people together in the best way possible under the worst conditions.
“Being with patients in their last moments and being able to offer prayers or blessings is a sacred and humbling privilege.”
Sandra recommended that people who have spare time should volunteer in their community.
“Volunteering is most rewarding, satisfying and fulfilling. One receives back much more than one gives. It also gives one purpose and meaning in life.”
Published 18-May-2026
