It’s National Volunteer Week!

Sandra and James are wonderful examples of how important volunteers are and the positive impact they can have on patients and their families at Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH).

“Every day, there is something new to learn. I am happy to take anyone who visits the hospital to their destination by escorting them or by wheelchair. The part I like the most is when I see confusion on visitors faces turn into relieved smiles,” says Sandra.

The couple began volunteering at JBH one year ago after James came to the emergency department as a patient. While they were waiting, Sandra noticed a patient who needed a glass of water. Sandra asked a nurse where she could get her one and the woman was relieved when Sandra returned with the water for her.

“I told James that it felt great to be able to help someone. He suggested, as we are both retired, that we should volunteer here.”

James volunteers in Ambulatory Care and as a CARE Ambassador. His roles include directing patients to their proper waiting areas, preparing them for MRI scans, providing wheelchair assistance, answering and redirecting calls and giving directions to the Fracture Clinic. He enjoys working with these teams because they are centered around patient care and giving back to the community.

“I love the look on patient’s faces when they aren’t stressing because I am helping them. They give me compliments in return and the feeling that I am needed,” says James.

Sandra volunteers in Day Surgery and as a CARE Ambassador. Her roles include maintaining the stock available for the nursing staff, providing wheelchairs for patients when they leave and helping nurses and patients in any way she can. She encourages others to take the opportunity to volunteer and help those who are often overwhelmed by the circumstances that have brought them into the hospital.

“Volunteers are never too busy to care. Get involved and make a difference,” says Sandra.

Sandra and James love volunteering at JBH together. The impact of people helping people is truly invaluable.

“Sandy and I often come home on cloud nine. Volunteering gives you such a high, and it’s something that we share together,” says James.

Thank you to all of our volunteers who bring their passion, commitment and dedication to the patients, visitors and staff at Joseph Brant Hospital.

Learn more about volunteering by visiting our website.