Ruth – The Sunflower Program
22nd May 2019
Ruth started volunteering in April 2017 in the Calvary ACT Bruce Public Hospital’s Emergency Department, providing support and comfort to patients and their families. She then started volunteering for the Sunflower Program, chatting to patients with Dementia about the interests, hobbies, background, likes and dislikes. This information is then used by staff to connect with the patient and put them at ease. Ruth’s friendly, caring and calming personality makes her a wonderful volunteer, who is able to bring a smile to people in hospital.
I wanted to become a volunteer at Calvary because I feel comfortable in a hospital environment and thought I could give something back to Calvary for personal reasons and to the wider Canberra community where I have lived most of my adult life.
What I enjoy most about volunteering is the humbling and rewarding experience of helping others feel just a bit better for a time, despite their condition.
I’ve been lucky to have many such moments particularly talking with patients with dementia. Many are able to enjoy remembering past experiences and important people in their lives. Seeing them relax and smile is just the best.
My advice to someone who is thinking about volunteering at Calvary hospital is ‘please do’. It’s a caring and supportive environment, the staff are wonderful and there is bound to be several volunteering jobs which will appeal.
If you are interested in volunteering with Calvary find out more here
