Our Stories: Volunteers

Q: How long have you been a volunteer at Calvary and how many days/hours do you work with patients?

A: I have been a volunteer at the Bronx Campus for the last 16 years. I started in July 2005. I currently volunteer on Tuesdays from 8 am to 4 pm. I assist in the volunteer department by doing administrative work in the morning then by the afternoon, I am part of the recreation team. I enjoy calling bingo and watching the patients enjoy the game and interact with one another.

Q: What made you decide to become a volunteer at Calvary?

A: In 2004, my father was a patient at Calvary for five weeks. Every day I was amazed at the level of care provided by the whole medical staff, from the doctors, nurses and CCT’s (Calvary Care Technicians). Their mission was to make my dad comfortable and fill his last days with joy. The experience touched me. Since then I knew that I had to be a part of the Calvary mission.

Q: How has volunteering helped you in your personal life/career?

A: Volunteering at Calvary has given me a sense of fulfillment. I have learned to value each day of physical and mental health to the fullest. I love working with the patients and my interactions with the Calvary staff at all levels have been a wonderful experience.

Q: Tell us a memorable experience you’ve had as a volunteer with us.
A: After being a volunteer for the last 16 years, I can honestly say that there is no one memorable experience. Each patient and family member I have come across has touched me in some way. I hope that I have been able to add something to each patient and family member’s life, because they have in turn fulfilled mine.

To learn more about how you can become a volunteer, visit:
www.calvaryhospital.org/ways-to-give/creative-ways-to-give/volunteer/