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When Patricia Finnegan was a patient at BWH three years ago, her family was comforted by volunteers who helped them and sat with them when they could not be at Finnegan’s bedside in the intensive care unit.
“My brother told me that the volunteers were very reassuring and helpful,” said Finnegan. Those words stayed with Finnegan after her release from the hospital. When she made a full recovery, she came back to BWH, this time as a volunteer in the Emergency Department acting as a liaison to patients’ family members in the waiting area.
“I like volunteering in the ED where I help ease the anxieties of families and patients during what can be a difficult time,” Finnegan said.
BWH last week celebrated Finnegan and the more than 1,200 volunteers who make a difference at BWH every day. During the past year, these volunteers provided 900,000 hours of service to the hospital, 400 more hours than last year.
“We can’t shine a bright enough spotlight on you,” said Chief Operating Officer Kate Walsh during a ceremony in the Bornstein Amphitheater. “Your dedication and commitment to helping people during what can be their worst times is so appreciated. We’re a stronger community, a better and safer hospital and a nicer place because of you.”
Leslie Stewart, program and training coordinator in the Office for Sponsored Staff and Volunteer Services, reflected on the three years she has worked with volunteers. Stewart begins a full-time nursing program this summer and told the audience five things she has learned by working with volunteers.
“One, sometimes public transportation can be unreliable, but our volunteers are patient and understanding. Two, a warm blanket for a patient in a waiting room makes a bigger difference than anyone can imagine. Three, our Central Transport Services volunteers know many shortcuts! Four, animals do have a place in the hospital with pet therapy. And five, you can fit volunteer service into your lifestyle,” she said. “We have volunteers from many different lifestyles who find time for three to four hour shifts. It’s so refreshing to work with people who offer their time and energy.”
Prior to a sit-down dinner, volunteers were treated to a sing-along of “That’s What Friends Are For,” performed by Angela Perry, winner of the first BWH Idol competition. Perry also sang “Wind Beneath My Wings” as a thank you to volunteers.
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