To celebrate National Volunteer Week 2022, we are profiling a new FCBC volunteer each day this week! Today, we feature a Q&A with our wonderful volunteer, Laileen Springgay.
Name: Laileen Springgay
Volunteer Role: on the Dementia Care Coordinating Committee. It is a collaborative committee of Shared Care, Vancouver Division of Family Practice, Providence Health Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver Primary Care Network (PCN), Alzheimer Society of BC, FCBC and local non-profits. Its aim is to create, pilot and utilize tools to better support care of people living with dementia and their family/friend caregivers within the Downtown/West End PCN region.
Why I chose to volunteer with FCBC: Caregiving is an integral part of my life and FCBC enables me to learn and share.
My personal caregiving experience and/or association is/has been: With Alzheimers and aging parents over several years.
Upon reflection of your volunteer investment, your favourite part of working with FCBC/family caregivers is: Connecting with a community of caregivers. Being empowered.
What would you say to others who may be interested in becoming a FCBC volunteer?: You do not have to be alone on the caregiving path. Journey together with caregivers, add your voice to FCBC’s advocacy to recognize and support the work of caregivers. This will improve your quality of life and that of the people you care for.
Favourite quote/motto or words of wisdom for other caregivers: Be kind to yourself. Bloom where you are planted