Volunteers key to positive mood at cancer centre

The BC Cancer Agency Sindi Ahluwalia Hawkins Center for the Southern Interior is noted as a place of warmth and friendliness, thanks in large part to a troupe of impassioned volunteers dedicated to improving the patient experience.

Around 95 volunteers at the Southern Interior Centre do everything from welcoming and assisting new patients to supporting clinical staff and crucial therapeutic programs such as the relaxation group, art therapy and laughter yoga.

But, most of all, their kind and welcoming presence provides a muchneeded reprieve for those undergoing cancer treatment — an emotional process for many.

“I receive so many responses about the positive impact volunteers had as patients went through their cancer journey,” said Heather Burns, volunteer co-ordinator.

Many volunteers provide comfort to patients by offering a warm smile or helping them find their way to appointments and, in some cases, sharing their own stories as cancer survivors or caregivers.

National Volunteer Week runs from April 23 to 29 and at the Southern Interior Centre, making it a time to recognize the dedication of volunteers who have become an indispensable part of the BC Cancer identity.

“It has become clear to me in my first year in this role that our volunteers don’t do what they do for appreciation, and that is all the more reason to ensure we take time to acknowledge the incredible contribution they make on a daily basis to our patients, their caregivers as well as the staff they support through their volunteering,” Burns said.

“I try to show appreciation throughout the year, but I think it is important to have a week that is focused on recognizing the great team of volunteers that we are fortunate to have here.”

In preparation for the week, patients are being encouraged to write notes describing their experience — and the response has been overwhelming, Burns said.

One response reads: “My journey dealing with conquering cancer was made easier and smoother by the understanding, patience and help of the ‘cool’ compassionate volunteers whose presence when I enter and leave the clinic is always cheerful.”

It’s a testament to the incredible people who comprise the volunteer base at the Southern Interior Centre, Burns said.

“It is a privilege to come to work every day to lead and support a team of caring and compassionate volunteers that are so dedicated to giving their time to helping others,” she said.

Contributed by the BC Cancer Foundation.

Learn about volunteer opportunities at the BC Cancer Foundation at bccancerfoundation.com, and with the BC Cancer Agency at bccancer.bc.ca.