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Sr Malachy Stockemer OP Volunteer, Central Kansas Medical Center, Great Bend, Kansas |
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Being a volunteer at Heartland Cancer Center has become my most cherished occupation since I retired from active service as a teacher, social worker and university director of students. I look forward to Wednesday afternoon. That’s when I share my time and talents with patients who require a doctor’s consult or chemotherapy. I never have to wonder what to do. I walk into the Center and meet 50 or more people who come from miles around to see the doctor. I greet as many as possible and begin the little ways in which I hope to help them. There are plants that need a drink, or want to be moved to another spot. They show the patients, “Life is here for you.” I hear beautiful stories of patients’ spiritual journeys and remembrances of Sisters who cared for them. Most of them are so happy that “a Sister is here.” As time passes, I move to the chemotherapy area, where patients await my question: “Would you like a cookie, some coffee or water?” Here, I don’t need a name: I’m called “the cookie lady,” “the happy Sister with a treat,” or even “the tempter” (by a diabetic). I like to surprise anyone who looks German with a small phrase, such as “Vie gehts?” Their surprise is worth a million. Don’t ask me to say much more, or understand their response! Their smiles are enough. Later, I offer reading materials. Some are eager to catch up with local news. Several times I’ve been able to interest a small child in our cabinet of toys. They never forget where to return them (with a parent’s help)! Then, I may sit down to enjoy my hobby of embroidering tea-towels for our community Bazaar to help those in need, here or in our Nigerian mission. This hobby has caught the interest of many patients and staff members, reminding them of past stitches. Volunteering is great! My spirit is refreshed by it. I thank God for the opportunity to share and care in a place where His presence is very real. I can testify that hope keeps one going in the midst of pain. The marvel of life often serves as a source of meditation. I pray that many others will avail themselves of the gift of volunteering. |
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“I thank God for the opportunity to share and care in a place where His presence is very real.” |
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Reverence Integrity Compassion Excellence |
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¨ Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) ¨ Central Kansas Medical Center ¨ Sister Peggy Martin OP, JCL, Senior Vice President, Sponsorship and Governance, Catholic Health Initiatives (1) CHI Photo, and (2) 2001 Leadership Letter ¨ Sister Mary Ann Klein OP Endowment Video on the Nursing Shortage ¨ Sr Terry Wasinger OP, RN, Family Birthing Unit, Central Kansas Medical Center, Great Bend, Kansas ¨ Sr Malachy Stockhemer OP Volunteer, Central Kansas Medical Center, Great Bend, Kansas ¨ Mary Klinge OPA, Central Kansas Medical Center, Great Bend, Kansas ¨ Sr Diane Traffas OP Catholic Health Initiatives, Minneapolis, Minn. (2000) |