Volunteers in Lakewood - Lakewood Hospital

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

Each week over 250 volunteers generously give their time at Lakewood Hospital. Many are visible: pushing patients in wheelchairs, distributing communion, passing out magazines, giving directions - others help out in areas not so obvious: clerical work Human Resources and the Psychiatric Unit, discharge callbacks in the Emergency Room. No matter how or where they serve, all will be celebrated during National Volunteer Week (April 23-29).

This year's theme "Inspire By Example" celebrates the power volunteers have to inspire the people they help, and in doing so, inspire others to serve. While the week gives patients and visitors a chance to show their appreciation, it is the staff who relish in the opportunity to express their gratitude for the important and positive difference the volunteers make. Here are a few of the appreciative comments they made.

Maryjo Macejko who coordinates the 5 volunteers, who serve the Pharmacy Department, says: "We could not function as a department without them- they are all phenomenal! They are indispensable and we are so grateful that they take time out of their lives to help us."

The volunteers who work in Human Resources handle everything from keeping employee files up to date and, checking employment references. Says Director Miriam Barton: "We not only appreciate them for their invaluable work, but we benefit from intangibles like their sense of humor and spirit of fun."

Bob Gallagher, Director of Radiology where volunteers work in several areas commented that the volunteers' inspiration could be seen in their "willingness and eagerness to learn, their concern in performing their assignments with accuracy, the many unselfish hours they offer and their personable and friendly dispositions. We are very fortunate at Lakewood Hospital to have such an outstanding group of volunteers. With them, the Radiology Department is able to operate and function much smoother.

Agi Horvath who spends time twice a week helping out in the Medical Staff office is praised by department Director Jennifer Ritchie: We absolutely love Agi. She is thorough, always willing to help out and has the most enthusiastic attitude. She is our "taskmaster."

Reverend David Walker, Director of Pastoral Care at the hospital, poignantly sums up the teamwork concept when he says:" They are our partners in caring for our patients, their family members and each other. They are dedicated and compassionate and we honor their gifted service which is vital to all that we do here. I thank them for all that they do."

Says Manager of Volunteer Services Maureen Duffy; "One week is hardly enough to truly reflect how grateful we are for the numerous acts of service being performed throughout the hospital at any given time on any given day. They are one of our most valuable assets."

If you are inspired to try volunteering, call the Volunteer Services Office at (216) 529-7171)
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Volume 2, Issue 8, Posted 7:07 PM, 04.10.06