Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has implemented a new volunteer program focused on providing companionship to dying inpatients who do not have family or other loved ones able to be with the patient during the end of their life.
The No One Dies Alone (NODA) program originally began in 2021 at Sacred Heart Medical Centre in Eugene, Ore., and is now an international program that provides Compassionate Companions for dying individuals in hospitals who would otherwise die alone.
“Whether talking softly, playing relaxing music, or simply holding vigil, our NODA volunteers act as a reassuring presence at the bedside of the dying patient when no friends or family are available to be with them during their final days of life,” said NODA Coordinator and Nurse Educator Rachel Thurnher in a press release.
NODA volunteers are given specialized training in compassionate communication, comfort care, death and dying, health care ethics, and spiritual care. The training is held in the health system’s Simulation Lab and includes the opportunity to practice being a compassionate companion.
Volunteers who would like to join the NODA program can call (910) 615-6783 or go to https://www.capefearvalley.com/volunteer-services for more information.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
