In the heart of Toronto, a dedicated group of volunteers is transforming the experience of patients and families at the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). Known as the Women’s Auxiliary Volunteers (WAV), this longstanding organisation provides vital support and comfort in an environment often filled with uncertainty and fear. Their contributions, both tangible and emotional, have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless children and their families.
A Personal Journey: From Patient to President
Lydia Canning, now 76, reflects on her childhood memories of being a patient at SickKids. Diagnosed with a rare blood disorder at just seven years old, she spent significant time in the hospital, surrounded by the stark realities of illness. Yet, amidst the sterile environment, it was the “play ladies” from the WAV who provided her with moments of joy and distraction. Crafting activities, such as weaving baskets and creating Bugs Bunny-themed decorations, remain vivid in her mind, overshadowing the more painful memories of needles and surgeries.
Recently appointed president of the WAV, Canning embodies the spirit of giving that characterises the group. “Those memories have faded, and the good memories have come to the forefront,” she recalls, emphasising the importance of the auxiliary’s role in providing care that transcends medical treatment.
The Vital Role of Volunteers in Healthcare
While volunteers are often overlooked in discussions about healthcare, their contributions are essential. According to recent Statistics Canada data, volunteering rates have decreased significantly, particularly within hospitals, where volunteer hours plummeted by 47% from 2013 to 2018. Despite this decline, Canadians contributed an impressive 35 million hours of volunteer work in hospitals in 2023.
The WAV, founded in 1950, is a testament to the profound impact that volunteers can have. Their work complements that of medical professionals by addressing the emotional needs of patients and their families. Research indicates that for every dollar invested in volunteer programmes, there is a return of approximately $6.84 in value, highlighting the economic benefits of volunteerism in healthcare settings.
Michelle Nelson, a senior investigator at the Bruyère Health Research Institute, notes that volunteers often create a “warm, caring, sophisticated healing system” that patients expect but may not always receive. This human touch can make a significant difference in the lives of families navigating challenging medical situations.
A Sisterhood of Support: The Auxiliary’s Unique Culture
The WAV has a rich history rooted in community and sisterhood. Established during a time when women played a pivotal role in healthcare, the group continues to thrive as an all-female organisation. This decision reflects the belief that their shared experiences foster a unique culture, enabling them to provide compassionate support to families in need.
In recent years, the WAV has adapted to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Membership dipped during the early stages of the crisis, primarily among retirees, who make up a significant portion of the volunteers. However, as society emerges from the pandemic, membership numbers are steadily increasing back to pre-COVID levels, currently standing at 220 active members.
The auxiliary engages in a variety of activities, from sewing baby blankets to running a gift shop that donates all proceeds to the hospital. Their presence can be felt throughout SickKids, where volunteers don bright turquoise jackets, offering assistance and comfort in the most trying of times.
Personal Connections: Volunteers Make a Difference
Many of the WAV volunteers have personal ties to SickKids, often having been patients themselves or family members of patients. For Canning, her connection to the hospital has come full circle. After years of volunteering, she now assists families in the surgical waiting room, providing guidance and support during some of their most anxious moments.
The bonds formed between volunteers and families can be transformative. For instance, Rita Song, another WAV member, began volunteering after witnessing her granddaughter’s journey through several major surgeries at SickKids. The warmth and engagement her granddaughter experienced in the family centre inspired Song to give back, creating a cycle of support that continues to benefit new families facing similar challenges.
Similarly, volunteer Anita Allen, a retired nurse, has returned to SickKids to offer joy and comfort. She recalls how her role has evolved from providing medical care to spreading cheer through games and toys. This human connection plays a crucial role in alleviating the stress of hospital visits for young patients.
Why it Matters
The work of the Women’s Auxiliary Volunteers at SickKids is about more than just filling gaps in a healthcare system; it is a testament to the power of compassion and community. In a world where medical challenges can be isolating, these volunteers embody the spirit of care that every family deserves. Their contributions enhance the healing process, providing a sense of normalcy and warmth in an environment that can often feel daunting. By bridging the emotional divide between patients and the healthcare system, volunteers like those at the WAV ensure that no family has to navigate their journey alone, creating lasting memories and support that resonate far beyond the hospital walls.