Meet Gerri Stiles, a much beloved Phone Pal Volunteer.

After 14 years as a hospice volunteer at Northern Light Hospice, Gerri began to experience her own health issues and driving became more limited for her.

Despite her transportation limitations, Gerri says she wanted to, “keep her volunteer spirit alive”, so she began volunteering at Southern Maine Agency on Aging as a Phone Pal volunteer. “Southern Maine Agency on Aging makes a difference. I wanted to be an advocate for the organization because they offer so many different capacities for folks to connect – whether that be volunteering or attending classes and events.”

The Phone Pal Program interested Gerri because it was something she could participate in from the comfort of her own home. “The program is such a wonderful way to stay connected when traveling may be difficult.” Gerri felt she still had so much more to give, and the convenience of the Phone Pals Program was a wonderful avenue for that.

After Gerri joined the program, she was matched with her Phone Pal, Rose, and for over 3 ½ years, they talked every single Tuesday! “I became a connection for Rose to the outside world. We talked about everything—our upbringing, what games we played, recipes. It was such a learning experience for both of us, and it was so rewarding to have a connection with someone who had similar interests and was similar in age. It was so powerful to be able to share our life experiences, like our work achievements or reminiscing on using typewriters and parts of our history. We understood each other and related to one another.”

One day when Gerri called, Rose’s son picked up, as Rose had begun receiving hospice care. Rose’s son told Gerri how much his mother deeply treasured their phone calls and how she looked forward to the calls each week. Gerri never stopped calling even as Rose’s health declined. Rose’s son would answer, say hello, and then put the phone up to Rose’s ear. These calls at the end of Rose’s life were special and so meaningful for both of them. Gerri’s background in hospice care also allowed her to understand Rose’s situation on a deeper level.

After Rose passed away, her son invited Gerri to the service where she would be meeting him and Rose’s whole family in person for the first time and would be able to pay her respects to Rose. Gerri said that her and Rose, “were a match made in heaven,” and that she firmly believes they will see each other again one day.

Gerri wants potential Phone Pal volunteers to know that, “we are listeners. We are there to listen to their obstacles, challenges, and joys. The more you find in common with your Pal, the faster the hour call flies by and you can’t wait for your next call. Whether you volunteer for a few weeks, months, or years, you will never forget your Pal.”

We at SMAA deeply thank Gerri for her kind heart, generous spirt, and warm conversation, because if you can believe it, Gerri is an absolute delight to speak with over the phone! We also thank and honor Rose and her family and we will forever keep them in our hearts.