As a volunteer from Dean Foundation, Chennai. I had the great privilege of participating in the online Volunteers Training Programme conducted by IAPC from 20-25 November 2025. When I signed up for the Foundation Course in Palliative Care for Volunteers, I thought I was signing up to “help people.” What I didn’t realize then was that I was about to embark on a journey that would reshape the way I look at illness, suffering, compassion, and even life itself. Over the last few weeks, the training has opened my eyes to a world that exists beyond medicines, surgeries, and hospital walls. I learned that palliative care is not only about treating symptoms. It is about restoring dignity, relieving suffering, supporting families, and walking alongside people at some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Understanding What Truly Matters One of the biggest shifts for me was understanding that palliative care focuses on quality of life. It bridges the space between cure and care. The course helped me understand that my role as a volunteer is not simply to “do,” but to be present, to listen, to acknowledge, to comfort, and to stand beside families navigating fear, grief, and uncertainty. I was deeply moved by the sessions on end-of-life care, communication, and understanding grief. I learned how important it is to listen without judgment, to respect choices, and to support families as they make difficult decisions. The training gently reminded me that every patient has a story, and every story deserves compassion. Learning to Support With Sensitivity The course also gave me insights into caring for different age groups, especially children. Paediatric palliative care touched me deeply. Understanding how families cope, how children perceive illness, and how small gestures of warmth can bring comfort in unimaginable circumstances. We explored topics like: Supporting families emotionally Understanding loss and bereavement Setting realistic care goals Providing holistic care Each session reminded me that empathy is a skill we can nurture, and compassionate care is a responsibility we share. Feeling Equipped, Empowered, and Inspired Today, I feel far more confident stepping into my role as a volunteer. I feel prepared—not just with knowledge, but with heart, awareness, and clarity of purpose. I now understand boundaries, ethical responsibilities, teamwork, and the importance of self-care for volunteers too. I feel ready to contribute meaningfully to palliative care initiatives, especially through organizations like Dean Foundation, and to support patients and families with sensitivity and respect. Gratitude and Purpose I am deeply grateful for this training, the incredible facilitators, the inspiring stories shared, and the safe learning space that allowed us to reflect, ask questions, and grow. This course didn’t just equip me with skills—it strengthened my commitment to serve with kindness, humility, and love. The training also emphasised the need for every organisation to engage volunteers, and train them pro-actively in all the above areas, including fund raising and advocacy. I am fortunate to have been  registered with Dean Foundation which has been pioneering in this field for 27 years. I have become a life member of the IAPC, under whose umbrella I intend to further my knowledge and hone my special skills and expertise  in this field. IAPC  is in the forefront leading, guiding and supporting volunteers. I look forward to greater interaction and collaboration with them, so I can serve the patients in the time of deepest need, knowing that I am following the best practices with great dedication, deep empathy and honesty that can identify with their immense trauma and pain as they end their journey on earth. As I step forward, I carry with me a simple but powerful lesson: Palliative care is not only about helping someone live better; it is about reminding them that they are not alone. This article was originally published on IAPC Website and in the IAPC Newsletter, January 2026 Edition. About the Author: Shashikala Devanesen (Shashi), from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, holds postgraduate qualifications in Social Work from Stella Maris College and Hospital Administration from Loyola College, Chennai . She has also completed training as a meditator at the University of Adelaide. With over three decades of professional experience, she has worked extensively in the United States, Australia, and India. In Australia, she served juvenile and geriatric populations, holding key roles with Somerville Community Services and the Department of Health, Darwin. She has also worked with World Vision and the International Airport Authority of India. Now permanently based in India, she is committed to giving back through volunteer service with the Dean Foundation, Chennai.