A quiet presence: Leanne Kristofferson on the power of peer support
When Leanne Kristofferson’s partner accessed medical assistance in dying (MAID), she found herself navigating the experience alone. “We were on our own,” she shares. “I wished I’d had a person with lived experience that I could connect with.” That wish became the foundation of her decision to volunteer with MAID Family Support Society.
Today, Leanne is one of the many compassionate volunteers offering a listening ear and steady presence to those walking the path she once did. Her support is grounded in empathy, lived experience, and a deep respect for each unique story she encounters.
Every connection matters
When asked to describe a particularly meaningful experience, Leanne finds it impossible to choose just one. “Each and every connection I’ve made is unique and meaningful on its own,” she explains. “There is simply not one experience or interaction that was more meaningful than the other.” It’s this genuine regard for each person’s story that makes her presence so impactful.
A sigh of relief
Leanne describes the most rewarding part of her volunteer role as hearing “a person’s sigh of relief” – the audible exhale that comes when someone realizes their feelings are valid, they are not alone, and have nothing to be ashamed of. In those moments, trust begins to build, and the weight of isolation starts to lift.
Holding space, gently
Of course, supporting others through emotionally charged moments can be complex. Sometimes, individuals want to forge a lasting friendship with their volunteer. Leanne approaches these situations with compassion and care, gently reinforcing boundaries while allowing space for the relationship to evolve at the other person’s pace. “I recognize that some people are very lonely,” she says, “or simply don’t understand the peer support role.”
To prepare herself emotionally for these calls, Leanne turns to solitude. “I sit in quiet for 20 minutes or so just to let go of whatever has been occupying my day,” she shares. It’s a small but powerful ritual that allows her to be fully present with the people she supports.
Drawing from experience
Leanne brings a wealth of knowledge to her role, not only from her own experience with MAID but from her professional background as well. Skills in motivational interviewing, trauma-informed practice, and investigative interviewing all help her connect meaningfully with others. “I’ve done a lot of my own reading,” she says, “but it’s the training from my professional life that’s been the most beneficial.”
The heart of peer support
To those considering a volunteer role with MAID Family Support Society, Leanne offers wise advice: “Don’t come to this role thinking you’re counselling. Be mindful that you’re a person with lived experience. There is a difference.” It’s a reminder that the heart of this work lies in shared humanity, not expertise.
Humbled by every story
Volunteering has changed Leanne’s own perspective on end-of-life care. “Everyone has a story that’s unique to them,” she says. “I’ve grown to feel deeply humbled each time a person trusts enough to share with me.” Though MAID can be complicated for some, for Leanne, it is deeply personal – a path she’s walked with love, loss, and, now the quiet power of presence.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
