Such a wonderful story. Most people have no idea about the therapeutic value volunteers provide to the patient. Even something as simple as a few minute visit can make the difference in mental stasis which of course can affect physical condition.

The mental status can make the difference in eventual outcomes and since nursing staff are usually under staffed they haven't much extra time to interact other than the quick treatment at hand.

I used to provide a big yearly event for our volunteers so they would realize how much we value them. If you feel unhappy and somewhat running on empty, try volunteering even just a few hours weekly can change not only the quality of a patients life but yours as well.

Volunteers end up the happiest, most satisfied people around, plus you make many new friends. Check with Social Services or an Activity Director, they will LOVE to find a perfect fit for you.

Very nice! Heart-warming.

In this part I noticed that "I" should be "Rick."


I suspect you were changing to a different POV (from me to Rick) and missed that.

Thanks for sharing!