Meet Errol: A calm and compassionate presence at Dorothy Ley Hospice

• Impact

Published: July 10, 2026

Errol has been volunteering with Dorothy Ley Hospice since 2015, but his path to the hospice began many years earlier. As a young man, a priest once suggested that he consider volunteering in hospice care, supporting individuals nearing the end of life. At the time, Errol politely dismissed the idea, thinking it wasn’t something he was meant to do.

Nearly twenty years later, however, someone shared a simple but powerful piece of advice with him: “If you want to know the type of person you are, go talk to a dying person.”

Those words stayed with him. They became the nudge he needed to walk through the doors of Dorothy Ley Hospice – a decision he has never looked back upon.

Since then, volunteering has become a deeply meaningful part of Errol’s life. In fact, he often says he receives far more from the experience than he gives.

Errol began his volunteer journey helping in the hospice kitchen, where one early interaction left a lasting impression. One morning, a resident chose to eat her breakfast in the kitchen while he worked. During their conversation, she told him that he had a calming effect on her. Anyone who knows Errol knows just how true that is.

Moments like this helped build his confidence in a setting that can feel daunting for many people. Even now, Errol says there are times when he isn’t sure exactly what to say to residents or their families. But he has learned that words are not always necessary. His calm nature, quiet presence, and willingness to help often provide more comfort than anything that could be said.

Outside of his volunteer work, Errol leads a busy and fulfilling life. He works full-time in IT Security and together with his wife – a physiotherapist – is raising three wonderful children. Their daughter is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Halifax, one son is studying computer engineering, and their youngest son is in high school.

Despite his full schedule, Errol treasures his Sunday mornings at the hospice. He describes this time as his escape – a space that keeps him grounded amid the many responsibilities and challenges of everyday life.

Over the years, Errol has experienced many powerful moments at the bedside of residents. He speaks about how meaningful it is to simply sit with someone offering presence and companionship.

Often, he has witnessed residents visibly relax, finding peace in the calm that fills the room. It is in these quiet moments that the true impact of hospice volunteers becomes clear. We are incredibly grateful for Errol’s compassionate service and the gentle care he offers to residents and their families. His kindness, humility, and steady presence make a profound difference in the lives of those he supports.

Thank you, Errol, for everything you do!