For nearly 20 years, Stichting Vaarwens has provided free boat trips for people who are terminally ill. Volendammers Mario van Baarsen and his wife, Liesbeth Koning, are among the foundation’s approximately 80 volunteers and sail its boats in North Holland. The foundation currently has two boats in service and is preparing a third, for which it is seeking funding.

Two weeks ago, the couple took Mario’s sister Riek, whose dementia had worsened, on a family trip with the foundation. It was the first time they had joined as guests rather than volunteers. Mario and Liesbeth say they will continue sailing for Vaarwens as long as they remain healthy.