In a world where healthcare can often feel isolating and daunting, the Women’s Auxiliary Volunteers (WAV) at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have become an invaluable lifeline for patients and their families. This summer, we embark on a series spotlighting the compassionate individuals who serve within our healthcare system, beginning with the inspiring story of Lydia Canning, a former patient turned dedicated volunteer. At 76, Canning recalls her own childhood hospital experiences — not the pain, but the joy brought by volunteers who provided creative outlets during her challenging times.
A Journey from Patient to President
Lydia Canning’s journey with SickKids began at the tender age of seven when she was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder. Hospitalised for extended periods, her memories are tinged with both joy and hardship. Amongst the clinical chaos, she vividly remembers the “play ladies” who brought her small tokens of happiness, like crafts and games. “Those memories have faded,” Canning reflects, “and the good memories have come to the forefront.”
Now, as the newly appointed president of the WAV, Canning is committed to ensuring that today’s children experience a similar warmth and kindness. The WAV, established in 1950, is the hospital’s oldest volunteer group and has been instrumental in providing emotional support and comfort to families navigating the complexities of paediatric care.
The Vital Role of Volunteers in Healthcare
Volunteers are the backbone of many healthcare institutions, often bridging the emotional gap that clinical settings can create. While they do not administer medical treatment, their contributions are undeniably significant. Statistics reveal that volunteer hours in hospitals plummeted by 47 per cent between 2013 and 2018, leading to concerns over the sustainability of such vital support. Yet, in 2023, Canadians still dedicated a staggering 35 million hours to volunteering, demonstrating a robust, if strained, commitment to healthcare.
A 2004 study highlighted the impressive return on investment from volunteer programmes, suggesting that for every dollar spent on volunteer infrastructure, there was an average return of $6.84 in value. This showcases not only the cost-effectiveness of such initiatives but also their crucial role in enhancing patient experiences and outcomes.
Michelle Nelson, a senior investigator at Bruyère Health Research Institute, emphasises the importance of volunteers in creating a nurturing healthcare environment. “They serve as the connective component of creating the warm, caring, sophisticated healing systems that we’ve come to expect,” she explains.
The History of the Women’s Auxiliary Volunteers
The WAV has a storied history, rooted in the founding principles of volunteerism that date back to 1865 in Canada. SickKids itself owes its existence to a group of women who, in 1875, took it upon themselves to establish a hospital for children. The Women’s Auxiliary was officially formed 75 years later, paving the way for a dedicated group of women to organise fundraising efforts and support services.
The auxiliary began as a grassroots initiative, born from a simple conversation between two physicians. Dr. Andrew Lawrence Chute and his wife, Dr. Helen Reid Chute, launched a fundraising bazaar that raised vital funds for the hospital and solidified the role of women in healthcare volunteering. Since then, the WAV has raised over $23 million, supporting various initiatives within SickKids, including the creation of playrooms and support services for families.
The Personal Touch: Stories of Connection
For many volunteers like Lydia Canning, their connection to SickKids is deeply personal. Canning’s journey back to the hospital as a parent ignited her desire to give back. “Where do I apply?” she asked a volunteer when she accompanied her daughter for a procedure. Now, 35 years later, she continues to bring comfort to families in the surgical waiting room, helping to alleviate anxiety for parents during some of their most trying moments.
Volunteers like Canning provide a vital human connection, often stepping in as confidants or even surrogate family members. They have an innate understanding of the emotional needs of families, often knowing exactly when to offer a comforting hug or a listening ear. Their presence creates a sense of community within the hospital, fostering an environment where families feel seen and supported.
Why it Matters
The work of the Women’s Auxiliary Volunteers transcends traditional healthcare roles, embodying the essence of compassionate care. Their contributions not only enhance the patient experience but also support the emotional wellbeing of families during distressing times. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the importance of volunteers like Canning cannot be overstated. They remind us that behind every medical procedure is a story of human resilience and the need for compassion, affirming that the heart of healthcare lies in the connections we forge.