~ honest. sincere. embarrassing. funny. with a healthy dose of sarcasm. ~
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Thursday, March 9

Beginning it all with a bang - in true scatter-brained jess style....and still loving it!!

Yesterday was my first day of volunteering at the hospital -- and I absolutely loved it!!

The morning started off a little rocky; Garnet took an OT shift at work - so I was lucky that Sandra could step in and look after Tim. I got to the hospital about 15 minutes early and 1/2 an hour later was still waiting for the Volunteer Co-ordinator. I was able to get someone to call her -- she was in her office at the other hospital site and had mixed up the dates. She rushed over, got my uniform, showed me the sign in process and we got things rolling. She politely informed me that because I was stupid enough to bring my purse and park on the road I may be leaving purseless and with a ticket. I figured (in the early morning when I was supposed to meet her) that because I was early I would have the time to run back out and park in the right parking lot (because I wasn't sure where I was allowed) and leave my purse in the car. But because it was now 45 minutes later I obviously didn't have the time. I decided to just hope for honest people and stupid parking authority that day.

The floor that I am working on is Acute Care and it's mostly elderly. I got to clear the food trays, make some beds, clear the laundry bags and roll cleansing cloths. The Unit Helper that I was working with was a good friend of Sandra's so we had a really good time - and she was amazing at showing me everything I needed to know.

One patient looked so much like my grandma - even the same mannerisms as she leaned over and asked me what I thought of her hair. I told her she was beautiful and she explained that her hair appointment was booked for the day after she ended up in the hospital. She was trying to wet it down because the curls were out of control. She was absolutely adorable and I had a great laugh with her as we decided it would be so much easier if we could just go bald!

The Unit Helper that I was working with has a system in order for making the beds - I was learning quickly....but according to one patient; not quickly enough! This beautiful older lady watched closely as I fumbled with the folds - making sure they were neat and in the right place. I looked at her and gave her a warm smile when I felt her eyes on me. She raised her finger and stated clearly "You don't make a good bed!" So clearly - I'll need all the practice I can get -- which is fine with me!! I can't wait for my next shift.

Yes, I still have a purse - and no I didn't get a ticket.

3 comments:

Jenni said...

I am so excited for you Jessica. Keep up the good work.
Lots of love,

Hilsy said...

ahhh!!!!! i am so excited for you!!!!!! and am sure you are going to do a fantastic job! :)
I love you and miss you!!!!
xoxoxo

Anonymous said...

Good for you,Hon!! I can see your warm smiles and giggles lighting up the ward.
xoxoMom