Having spent the past eight years with our hospital volunteers as the volunteer coordinator at Sheridan Memorial Hospital, I have come to understand that volunteering is often made up of meaningful moments that connect in unexpected ways.
We see young volunteers discovering their path as they learn how to help others, how to listen and how to have compassionate conversations with people they have just met.
We see former employees who retire from their roles at the hospital, only to return the very next week as volunteers, eager to stay connected to the people and relationships that meant so much to them.
We see providers who once cared for us — such as the OB who delivered me 35 years ago or the pediatrician who cared for me through my teenage years — now choosing to volunteer because of their deep commitment to this community. I never imagined a day when they might call me “boss.”
We see individuals who are new to Sheridan and are looking for a place to belong. They show up once a month, several times a week or at annual events, offering their time and talents so selflessly.
There are countless people and experiences within our volunteer program that enhance the patient experience, shape our hospital and support our community through every age and stage of life. I feel incredibly fortunate to witness these moments — both big and small — every single day.
One story in particular has stayed with me
In 2018, shortly after I stepped into my role at SMH, I onboarded one of my very first volunteers. She had recently moved to Sheridan with her husband, embracing a new season of life. Like many, she wanted access to excellent healthcare close to home, but she also wanted to give back. A friend had encouraged her to volunteer at SMH, and I’m so grateful they did.
We got to know each other as we both settled into Sheridan — me returning home and her building something new. She quickly became a familiar and valued presence within our volunteer program.
Then, in 2022, I received a letter she had written to our leadership team. In it, she shared a deeply personal experience that I had not known about.
Within just 16 days, she went from a routine mammogram to surgery after being diagnosed with breast cancer. She described every step of her care journey, including the imaging, biopsy, lab work, phone calls, appointments and follow-up planning. What stood out most was her gratitude for the care she received, beginning with a routine screening where additional images were taken to get a clearer, more complete picture.
She gave detail of every provider she met with, the biopsy, ultrasound, blood work, doctor’s call and visits, follow-up plans made; every experience she had that all originated from a routine screening, where they took the time so they could get a closer look for added clarity, and she credits with saving her life. After reading this and reaching out to her, I will never forget when she told me: “I am still amazed by how quickly this went and how professionally and compassionately it was handled. Now I know, although I always suspected, that I am volunteering in a very special hospital.” Another full circle moment.
Volunteers truly make our hospital, our community and our lives more meaningful. I am grateful for the many moments I get to share with them, but what I cherish most are the relationships they build with staff, patients and families. They are a daily reminder of the good in the world and of what happens when people choose to show up for one another.
When I first met her in 2018, she simply wanted to help, and that is exactly what she continues to do today. She did not come here because she expected anything in return, and she did not know what the future would hold. She came because someone invited her and because she cared.
That same invitation extends to all of you.
During Volunteer Appreciation Week, I hope you take a moment to thank a volunteer — whether you know them personally or not. They are all around us, helping ensure our community thrives. They show up throughout our community to ensure we have performances at the WYO to see, meals delivered and food provided for those of all ages, places to go when we need a little help and a smiling face greet you during a vulnerable time.
On behalf of SMH and the community we serve, thank you to our volunteers. Your unwavering dedication, compassion and commitment are a testament to the power of community. The difference you make through your service is immeasurable.
We simply could not do it without you.
To learn more about Volunteering at SMH, or to share a story about a hospital volunteer, please reach out to Development Coordinator Jasmine Slater at 307.675.2620 or click here.