INDIANAPLIS’S ‘NO ONE DIES ALONE’ PROGRAMS VOLUNTEERS TO SIT WITH DYING PATIENTS WHO HAVE NO FAMILY, ENSURING NO ONE LEAVES THIS WORLD BY THEMSELVES

The deeply moving initiative known as No One Dies Alone (NODA) began with a heartbreaking experience in 1986 that forever changed the way one nurse viewed end-of-life care.

Critical care nurse Sandra Clarke was caring for a patient who, nearing the end of his life, asked her to remain by his side. Overwhelmed by her responsibilities to other patients, Clarke was unable to stay. When she returned, she discovered that the man had died alone.

The experience stayed with her and ultimately inspired a mission: to ensure that no one would have to spend their final moments without the comfort of another human being.

In 2001, Clarke helped establish the official No One Dies Alone program at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center in Eugene, Oregon. The initiative brings together trained volunteers who serve as compassionate companions for dying patients who have no loved ones available to be with them.

These volunteers offer something simple yet profoundly meaningful: human connection. Whether holding a patient’s hand, reading aloud, speaking softly, or simply sitting in silence, they provide reassurance and companionship during life’s final hours.

Since its founding, the program has inspired similar efforts at hospitals and healthcare organizations throughout the United States, including Eskenazi Health in Indianapolis.

For patients without family or friends nearby, these volunteers become a comforting presence when it matters most. Their kindness reflects a powerful belief that every person deserves to leave this world surrounded by dignity, compassion, and care.

Sometimes, the greatest gift we can give another human being is simply making sure they are not alone.

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