For volunteer biographer Diane Di Lallo, helping palliative care patients share their life stories is about more than preserving memories — it’s about ensuring people feel heard, valued and remembered.
Diane volunteers with Mercy Palliative Care in Sunshine, where she works closely with patients to create written biographies for their families to treasure. Since joining the program in 2024, she has completed several biographies, combining interviews, personal stories and photographs into keepsakes that celebrate each person’s life.
“I find it rewarding to produce a beautifully written record of the patient’s life for their family to cherish after they’ve gone,” Diane said.
As part of National Volunteer Week, Diane shared what she has learned through the role, including the importance of listening without judgement and creating space for patients to reflect on their lives, memories and wisdom.
She said many patients initially believe their lives are “too boring” to document, but every story reveals meaningful moments, lessons and connections.
“I really love hearing their life wisdom; what their life has taught them and the wisdom accrued,” she said.
Diane said volunteering can have a profound impact not only on the people receiving support, but also on volunteers themselves.
“Just to be an active listener makes people feel seen, heard and valued,” she said.
Mercy Palliative Care offers a range of volunteer opportunities, including biography writing, patient visits, bereavement support and community engagement activities. To find out more about volunteering with Mercy Palliative Care or other Mercy Health services, visit: Volunteering
Read Diane’s full interview with Star Weekly.
