Meet Carol, volunteer, community member, and great grandmother. You’ll find her handing you a warm blanket in the Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU) or helping you find your way around the hospital.
Having lived in Markham for more than 42 years, and working at a family physician office, Carol knew when she retired she wanted to volunteer her time in the health care field.
Carol has volunteered 15 years in a variety of areas at Oak Valley Health’s Markham Stouffville Hospital, including the PACU, wayfinding, providing tours for new employees, and in the COVID-19 Community Vaccination Centre, to name a few.
“I was amused by the change in ages day to day at the vaccination centre,” says Carol. “I saw older folks with their walkers, and children as young as five come in to receive their vaccination.”
During the pandemic, volunteers have remained flexible as guidelines changed quickly. As soon as the Community Resources office was allowed to bring volunteers back into the organization safely, Carol didn’t hesitant to get her name on the list.
“I feel comfortable, have all the personal protective equipment I need, and I know how important it is for me to stay busy,” says Carol.
Carol has truly become part of the PACU team, where she spends two mornings a week. Whether that is delivering ice chips to patients or finding supplies in the JIT room (supplies area), she lends a hand whenever needed.
“Carol is a joy to be around, and adds so much to the unit, says Sherri Baskie, Unit Secretary, PACU. “She is reliable, and we all appreciate everything she does for us.”
Although the last two years have been challenging for all, at 80 years young Carol is very grateful she can continue to help people.
“It’s what keeps me going, I couldn’t imagine being stuck a home,” she chuckles.
Carol is one of 775 volunteers at Oak Valley Health. Our volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience to the organization and reflect our diverse community. Thank you for your continued support.