REM Award Honorees (2010 – 2011) — Monty Henderson (Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area)

HVWA is pleased to honor Dumont “Monty” Henderson as its Volunteer of the Year for 2010, for his devotion and commitment to providing his clients with quality care. Monty took both the Hospice Volunteer Training and Bereavement Facilitator training in 2008. He started accepting clients in nursing homes soon after. His clients enjoyed his visits and his cheerful, positive manner.

On February 25, 2010, Monty accepted a new client who had no family or friends, was in denial of the cancer that was spreading throughout his body and trusted no one. He would not conform to the requirements associated with the area nursing care facilities and wanted nothing to do with his new volunteer.

Undaunted, Monty visited him at his room every few days. The visit consisted of a few words through the door, to opening the door slightly, to agreeing to go out for a drive. Over time, their visits became “pleasant and polite.” Monty shared the things he does as a volunteer in the community and the client became very interested, which led to some good conversations. As the client’s illness progressed, it was Monty who visited every few days, did errands for him, and reported his health changes and needs repeatedly and tirelessly.

It is because of Monty’s devotion and stamina that his client received the care and services that were needed in providing him the dignity and care he deserved all the way to the very end when he passed away quietly in his sleep. Thank you, Monty, for the endless devotion and care you have given to your clients.

Monty worked for 35 years for the S.D. Warren Division of Scott Paper Company. He currently teaches science and technology courses at KVCC and serves as a program coordinator for the Pulp and Paper Technology Program since January of 2005. He is also an active member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Waterville, having served on the Vestry for six years, entered the Diocese Deacon Formation Program in 2005, and been ordained as a Permanent Deacon in June 2009.

Monty is married to Roxanne. They have raised seven children and have four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

For more information about Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area, please visit its website.