I began volunteering at Hurley Medical Center in 2016, having retired from a career in mortgage financing. While I also have a side passion for broadcasting, I felt compelled to find a place where I could volunteer and invest my time helping people.
I have always believed the saying, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Throughout my life, I have always tried to live by that rule. I was taught at an early age that we are here to serve and help one another. In 2011, my mentally impaired sister,
Theresa was a patient at Hurley. Theresa is 60 years old, but she has the mental capacity of a 10-year-old. There have been several times throughout her life that she has required medical attention. Because of her condition, she also requires a lot of special attention during her treatment and hospital stays. She has a fear of hospitals and can be difficult to handle at times. Winning her confidence and trust can be a challenge, to say the least. Our family’s experience with Hurley during Theresa’s hospitalization left an indelible impression on us. Whether it was first, second or third shift, the nursing staff went 12 asleep.
It was clear the staff had a level of commitment that demonstrated the heart of a truly professional team. The care Theresa received has caused my family to designate Hurley Medical Center as the only place for Theresa to receive care. When I began considering places to volunteer, the decision was obvious. The Hurley staff had demonstrated they were the kind of professional, caring team that anyone would be proud to be a part of. Now, as a volunteer and part of the Hurley team myself, I have the same opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those we have the privilege of caring for – and their families.
About The Author
Donald Cox volunteers as a chaplain, ER Ambassador and special event volunteer at Hurley Medical Center. He is also piloting Hurley’s Patient Care Ambassador Program. Last year, Donald volunteered 512 hours at Hurley and averages about 20 – 30 hours weekly.
For more information on volunteering at Hurley, visit www.hurleymc.com/about-us/ volunteering