"Being present when a patient takes the last breath is a sacred and humbling experience, you may be listening to the last story told by the patient."

– Palliative Care Chaplain, Julie Kim

Through the efforts of volunteers, No One Dies Alone (NODA) provides a reassuring presence to dying patients who would otherwise be alone. With the support of the nursing staff, NODA volunteers offer patients the most valuable of human gifts: a dignified death.

No One Dies Alone is for UC Davis Health patients who are expected to die within 48 to 72 hours and have no friends or family locally or who have no family involved or present.

  • Only active vaccinated  UC Davis Health employees are able to volunteer at this time.
  • An Orientation class is required before becoming a volunteer
  • The process involves being cleared by the Volunteer Services office as a volunteer and not employee. 

How to activate No One Dies Alone (NODA)?

To request a NODA volunteer email: hs-noda@ucdavis.edu or contact Neelam Chandra 916-734-4632.

When making the call provide the following information:

  • Patient Name
  • MRN
  • Age
  • Isolation if any present
  • Unit/Location/Bed#
  • Pertinent information, including time and reason for activation

Become a Volunteer today!

Email us: hs-noda@ucdavis.edu to get started!

Once we receive your application, you’ll hear from our volunteer coordinator who will provide you more information about the program and discuss if the program is best suited for your personality, and comfort level. Additionally, we also have orientation held by the Palliative Care Chaplain so that you’re completely prepared and comfortable before you begin volunteering.

For more information contact:

Neelam Chandra, MBA, nkchandra@ucdavis.edu