I am sorry about your mother. I too lost my mother in August of 2008. August 19th to be exact. It is amazing what the human spirit can endure. To lose a spouse and a parent at the same time is so overwhelming. Even though, I am sorry you went through this, it is comforting to know that I was not alone in such a situation.
I agree with you about finding some thing to give back to. It sounds like you have found yours and I applaud you. Hospice work is very intense and difficult.
Me: 46 H:44 Together: 25 years Married: 20 years Separated: 11-30-06 Divorced 12-21-07 OW: EA began 2005 PA began end of 2006 3 children,20, 16, 6 ex asked for forgiveness 01/16/11