In a world where the complexities of healthcare can often feel isolating for families, the Women’s Auxiliary Volunteers (WAV) at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children embody the spirit of compassion and support that is vital to patient care. Lydia Canning, who once navigated the hospital as a young patient over seven decades ago, now serves as the president of this esteemed volunteer group, illustrating the enduring legacy of kindness within the healthcare system.
Bridging the Gap in Patient Care
At the tender age of seven, Lydia Canning was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder, leading to long stays at SickKids. Despite the trauma of her childhood illness, it is the joyful memories of WAV volunteers that have left a lasting impression on her. “Those memories have faded,” Canning reflects, “and the good memories have come to the forefront.”
The WAV, established in 1950, consists of dedicated volunteers who provide comfort and companionship to patients and their families, often stepping into roles that complement the medical staff. Their contributions are a testament to the importance of emotional care in a healthcare environment traditionally focused on clinical treatment.
The Changing Landscape of Volunteering
Despite the invaluable role that volunteers play, recent statistics from Statistics Canada reveal a worrying trend: volunteer rates have dropped by 8% between 2013 and 2018, with hospital volunteering hours plummeting by a staggering 47%. This decline presents a challenge to healthcare facilities that rely on the goodwill of volunteers to enhance patient experiences.
However, even amid these challenges, Canadians devoted 35 million hours to formal volunteering in hospitals in 2023. The WAV continues to stand out as a vital resource, with a reported return on investment of nearly 700% for every dollar spent on volunteer coordination, highlighting the significant value that these volunteers bring to the healthcare system.
A Legacy of Support and Sisterhood
The WAV’s roots trace back to the founding of SickKids itself, established by a group of women who recognised the need for quality paediatric care in the community. This historical thread of women helping women remains a cornerstone of the auxiliary, fostering a unique culture of sisterhood that is still prevalent today.
With around 220 active members, the WAV is steadily regaining its pre-pandemic strength. Volunteers like Canning can be seen throughout the hospital, providing support to anxious families, engaging children with crafts, and helping to ease the burdens of illness. Their distinctive turquoise jackets have become symbols of reassurance for many.
Personal Connections and Healing
Many WAV volunteers, including Canning, have personal ties to SickKids, further enhancing their commitment. Canning has spent the past 35 years volunteering in the surgical waiting room, where she assists families during some of their most challenging moments. Her role extends beyond administrative tasks; she often acts as a source of emotional support, lending a caring hand or a listening ear when needed most.
The impact of these volunteers on the lives of patients and their families is profound. For example, the “bravery bead” programme, which allows children to collect beads representing different medical milestones, has become a cherished tradition among patients. Young volunteers like Anita Allen, who previously worked as a nurse, create joyful environments where children can play and feel safe, providing a nurturing atmosphere amidst the clinical setting.
Why it Matters
As healthcare systems across Canada face increasing pressures, the role of volunteers like those in the Women’s Auxiliary at SickKids cannot be overstated. They fill critical gaps in emotional support, practical assistance, and community building, enhancing the overall experience for patients and families. Their unwavering dedication not only alleviates the stress of medical procedures but also fosters a sense of belonging and care in an often overwhelming environment. In a time when humanity and compassion are needed more than ever, the WAV exemplifies the heart of healthcare, reminding us all of the power of kindness in healing.
