Judith Arasi
Patient and Family Service
Compassus Hospice, North Andover, MA 

Judith Arasi always felt like she was a natural caregiver with the desire to develop meaningful relationships with those around her. After retiring early from a 25-year career in dental office management, she was searching to fulfill her life’s purpose. Judi’s mother- in- law had passed away a year prior with the support of Compassus Hospice. She was so impressed with their amazing support that she decided to begin volunteering her time with them as a Patient Companion.  It was there that she quickly realized this was the path that her life was meant to take.

In the five years that Judi has been volunteering, she has learned that the most important gift you can give a patient is your time. She is passionate about being “in the moment” with her patients, learning about their lives, and understanding everyone is a unique individual with different needs. She considers her patients to be her friends, and looks forward to spending time with them. Whether it’s reading a book, sharing a favorite snack, listening to music, recreating an activity from the past that brought them joy, or simply holding hands with them, she has learned that the smallest gestures can make the biggest impact. She feels that it is an honor to be invited into one of the most sacred times in someone’s life, and is fortunate to be able to accompany them on their journey.

The 2023 Volunteers are the Foundation of Hospice Awards were sponsored by the Furst Group and NuBrick Partners