A devoted Hospice volunteer has proven that purpose and passion have no age limit, earning a BA in Counselling at 62. Sharon Mac Donald, a mother of two and grandmother of three from Mondeor, recently achieved the milestone after five years of dedicated study.

Her journey, rooted in compassion and a lifelong desire to uplift others, now strengthens her role as a volunteer at Stepping Stone Hospice, where she offers comfort and care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses.

A calling realised later in life
Mac Donald began studying towards her BA in Counselling at the age of 57 through Alberton Christian Fellowship Church, where the programme was initially introduced as a Bible study course. Participants were given the opportunity to specialise, and she chose counselling, a field she says had always been close to her heart.

“I believe people need to be heard and understood, even at their lowest,” she explained. Completing the course within the stipulated five-year period, Sharon said her motivation was guided by a simple belief: it is never too late to learn something new.

A lifetime shaped by people
Born and raised in Townsview, Johannesburg, where she also completed her schooling, Sharon describes her younger self as lively and full of spirit. Reflecting on her early years, she recalled naturally stepping into a supportive role from as young as 14.

“I have always counselled people by talking to them, guiding them, understanding them and believing in them. I have learnt so much through people,” she said.

Her career path further strengthened her connection with others. From working in a banking environment, where she encountered clients under financial stress, to a sports shop, where she met individuals passionate about their interests, she gained insight into a wide range of human experiences.

Her time at Dis-Chem Pharmacy deepened her understanding of health-related challenges and how illness can leave people feeling vulnerable and uncertain. In the early 2000s, she founded her own stress management massage spa, Heaven’s Way, initially operating part-time before committing to it fully in 2009.

Finding purpose in Hospice care
Sharon’s journey into Hospice work began after a friend encouraged her to consider volunteering. She embraced the opportunity without hesitation.

“I knew life does not have to end until your last breath, regardless of circumstances,” she said.

At Stepping Stone Hospice, she spends time with patients, offering emotional support, companionship and quiet presence. Whether listening, talking or simply sitting alongside someone, her approach reflects her belief that even the smallest acts of kindness can carry immense meaning.

She also assists patients outdoors, gently accompanying them to enjoy fresh air and the peaceful surroundings, moments she says bring a sense of freedom and joy.

“These are the moments that matter,” she added.

Strength through loss and gratitude
Widowed in 2022, Sharon relocated to Mondeor, where she lives with her sister, she continues to build a life centred on service and gratitude. Her personal experiences, including loss, have deepened her empathy for others navigating difficult circumstances.

She noted that many Hospice patients feel lost or despondent, but emphasised the importance of compassion and dignity.

“People deserve to be loved fully,” she said.

Living life with purpose
For Sharon, her journey is a testament to embracing one’s calling and appreciating life’s lessons. She believes that individuals must choose whether to hide their gifts or celebrate them.
“Whatever life throws at you, be grateful and take it as a lesson,” she said.

Her message to others is simple yet powerful: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away. Live your life to the fullest, because it is the most precious gift.”

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Through her work at the Hospice and her newly earned qualification, Sharon continues to inspire proving that it is never too late to pursue purpose, uplift others and make a meaningful difference.

Hospice expresses appreciation
Stepping Stone Hospice has expressed sincere gratitude for Sharon’s contribution, noting that her compassion and dedication have will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.

Staff said they are thankful to have her as part of the Hospice family, adding that her commitment to serving others embodies the very spirit of Hospice care.