This year I started volunteering at St. Jude's Children's Hospital. What a wonderful facility and fantastic organization of healthcare for children. I have been privileged to work with children in a way that brings joy and happiness into their lives. In return, I have experienced the same. At times, some of the families have expressed their gratitude to me, but I must confess I do not feel I am doing anything special at all. I am only there to help in any way I can to bring some relief from the stress and strain of the overwhelming circumstances so many families must face on a daily basis. I have suffered in other ways with my own children, one with special needs; however, I have never had to face the devastation that many families do. We all have our own hell to deal with in this life. It helps me to remember to count my blessings and understand there are people who are suffering much worse. A lot of attention and care is given not only to the patients, but the entire family, the siblings and the parents as well. I hope to continue my efforts with volunteering. My schedule fluxuates, but I do enjoy doing the little bit I can do. They say every little bit helps and in this case, I feel it is true. I have played games with children and helped them paint on the glass windows of the waiting rooms. They really enjoy creating beautiful mosiac murals for everyone to see and enjoy. I have played games with siblings while their brother or sister are getting various tests done. At times, the mother and father have actually fallen asleep in the waiting room because help watch the kids, while they get a quick nap. Other special events I have volunteered for include clothing give-aways, where each family gets to pick up to 4 brand new donated items for themselves and the children. Some got new coats and hats. Others got much needed school clothes. Then there was sibling day complete with lunch, clowns, a magic show and drum processional just to say thanks to those brave siblings who have to take the backseat all the time. I have to confess, it is a lot of fun for me too. I guess I'm still a kid at heart.
Many people have told me they could never do this, but it isn't at all as bad as they think. I don't see the same patients all the time. I might only see them once. This is a good way to keep from becoming too emotionally involved. Being sick is hard enough without having to get too involved with the patients anyway. It is best to keep a professional distance, so to speak. I may never know how it all works out for them either, but in the meantime, I can help make their lives a little more tolerable and enjoyable.
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