Treasuring Volunteers

I was surprised to see in our group's page in FB that the hospital where I used to work will host a program for the volunteers who have worked in the institution.  Ever since I was employed in 2008, they didn't have these kind of programs like honoring trainees and volunteers so I was baffled to see that they are having this gathering.

I was already late.  They said the program will start at 4pm but I arrived at quarter to 5 (due to my pedi session).  Luckily, some of my former colleagues are already there and the program has just started.

Opening remarks was given, volunteers from different departments were introduced, message was delivered and there are production numbers coming from the different groups.  I was elated because I am meeting my friends again whom I met during my trainee and volunteer years at CLMMRH.  After the food was served, there was a slideshow with pictures of volunteers and a picture of me and Marnie was included!lol.

We are thankful that through this program, we know that we are valued.:)

On the other hand, the reason why I wrote this blog is to share the value of volunteering.  Being a volunteer is not easy especially when you're a nurse.  As Wikipedia defines Volunteering (see below), volunteering is intended to improve quality of life.  I remember when I used to work in a hospital, I woke up early in the morning, or stay awake in the middle of the night just to render care to the patients.  A volunteer doesn't get paid.  Sometimes I get to handle difficult situations or be with not-so-happy workmates.  But it's all part of the experience.  A volunteer does not think of his self but rather think of other people first.

Through this experience, I have learned many lessons that it's not about you always.  God gave us talents and skills to share it with others.


Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity, intended to promote good or improve human quality of life. It is considered as serving the society through own interest, personal skills or learning, which in return produces a feeling of self-worth and respect, instead of money. Volunteering is also famous for skill development, to socialize and to have fun. It is also intended to make contacts for possible employment or for a variety of other reasons. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volunteering)

Volunteer's Creed

Though my troubles and my worries
are sometimes all that I can see -
still I always must remember
life's not only about me.

Other souls are also hurting
and I know that it's God's plan
to reach out to help another -
to extend them my hand.

With this purpose as my focus -
to be a comfort to a friend -
all my troubles and my worries
seem to fade out in the end.

It is one of God's true lessons -
how my walk is meant to be -
true happiness I find when
life's not only about me.

~Tom Krause
Motivational Speaker
www.coachkrause.com
Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul

An Ode to our Volunteers!

No matter the day or the month or the year
Our volunteers are always here

To help with the elderly the confused or the sick
Our volunteers know they have been hand picked!

A warm friendly smile, and reassuring voice,
is the best dressed volunteer’s accessory of choice

You wear brightly coloured costumes; you wear blue, coral and red,
You even wag your tail when people….. pat your heads.(St John Therapy Dog Program)

You often see what others do not, you can understand what people sometimes just want,

A little compassion goes a long way
You genuinely help people with their hospital stay.

You are our "ear to the ground" so to speak, it is your caring that everyone seeks.

We see you on every floor all areas and more, ED ( ER) , OPD, Cancer Clinic and the Lab
in Mamo, the Mail, flower care and , gift shop too
Pre Surgical Screening, Information Desks all of these and more who knew?

TeaTime, Meal Time , Music Time, Craft Time, Cuddlers. and floats,
Ortho Clinics, Library, baby clinics, ICU, and visiting you always raise hope!

You help brighten lives a little at a time,
offering a book, or a candy, lending an ear is all so kind.

You do things at home to help those in need,
Knitting and sewing you are up to speed,

Unique and fun items the crafter can do
fancy table runners and scarves to name a few

The patients are cozy thanks to your care, they are all so grateful
their feet and their laps are not bare!

And you also take pride and great efforts in doing their Hair!

Achievements in fundraising, you all should be proud; the goals you have reached rise higher than clouds.

Time is precious this is all true, with many other commitments we know we are only a part of what you do

We know you are busy, with family and friends your volunteering spirit knows no end.

You seldom say no, you often do more……so now it is time to thank you a bunch
and enough of me talking lets have lunch!

http://www.energizeinc.com/reflect/poem.html

Charting

our free time

Busy time

During our graveyard shift

With our former supervisor Ma'am Teray taken during the program

With mother Helen at the GS Ward.

This is my life as a volunteer..:)