National Student Volunteer Week – Cooper

We asked him a couple questions about his time with us and what it means to him.

 

As a student paramedic, palliative care means being there for someone to help fulfil their last wish as they near the end of life. It’s about bringing comfort, dignity, and compassion. While we’re trained to handle emergencies and act fast, palliative care is about slowing down, reading the room, and adapting to the needs of the patient and their family. It’s about understanding what matters most in that moment and being someone, they can rely on during an emotional and vulnerable time.

Growing up, I always loved the idea of making someone smile on their worst day. Now that I’m on the path to becoming a paramedic, volunteering with Ambulance Wish Queensland feels like the perfect fit. It’s not about the clinical side, it’s about human connection. What inspired me most is how the program gives people peace, joy, and closure in their final moments. It’s something I wanted to be a part of from the moment I heard about it.

From what I’ve seen, Ambulance Wish Queensland brings people together in a really meaningful way. It shows the community that healthcare isn’t just about hospitals, it’s about people, memories, and connection. The program gives someone the chance to visit a place close to their heart and spend meaningful time with loved ones. As a student paramedic, I’ve seen just how powerful emotional care can be. I believe it helps families heal and feel supported, even long after the day itself.

The emotional impact is huge. For the recipients, it gives them something to look forward to, hope and excitement. I’ve heard them talk about how much they’ve been looking forward to their special day. For the families, it creates a lasting and positive memory during a time that’s often full of sadness and uncertainty. During the wish, recipients are given a paramedic bear and a handmade blanket, and families are sent a photo album capturing moments from the day. These thoughtful touches leave them with something to smile about and cherish forever.

They say you always remember your first, and that was true for me. I was lucky to be part of an incredible first wish. We travelled to the recipient’s family property, and the view and landscape were just beautiful. When we arrived, the whole family was there to welcome him, and the smile on his face was priceless. Seeing the stories shared, the laughter, and the tears was something I’ll never forget. It reminded me how much this means to people and how lucky I am to be involved in such an incredible program.