Getting to Know HELP Volunteer: Hannah Sakiyama
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Hannah Sakiyama is a volunteer in the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. |
April 13, 2019
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) is proud to highlight Hannah Sakiyama, volunteer with the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP). Hannah is in her third year of nursing in the collaborative program at Lakehead University. When she’s not busy with school, she enjoys spending time with friends, outdoors, and volunteering!
Hannah has a passion for health care and helping others. Volunteering at the hospital was an opportunity to connect with the community, and it aligned with her career aspirations of becoming a nurse in Northwestern Ontario.
Through volunteering with the HELP Program at TBRHSC, Hannah has the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of seniors who have shared their stories, accomplishments, and have imparted wisdom to her. “It’s rewarding to see how grateful patients are, anticipating visits from HELP volunteers,” says Hannah. “I feel my role visiting with patients is especially impactful to those who do not have family or friends coming to visit them. HELP is an incredible program dedicated to the well-being of our senior population. I am thankful for the experiences this position has brought me.”
Being in the hospital environment on a regular basis and interacting with patients at a personal level gives Hannah an appreciation of their stories and experiences in the health care system. “I believe volunteers have a much larger impact on the health of others than people may realize.”
When asked about the value of volunteering, Hannah says “Get out there and get involved! All I can say is volunteering is incredibly rewarding and has helped me realize that small actions have a big impact. I have also met some great friends who are passionate about giving back to their community.”