Central Maine Healthcare salutes its volunteers

Central Maine Healthcare (CMH) is honoring its volunteers who play an integral role in the healthcare system's daily operations.

This is National Volunteer Week, a time to highlight those who inspire us to serve, and recognize and thank them for lending their time, talent and voices to make a difference in their communities.

For some CMH volunteers, their service is a continuation of their professional career. Laura Cote, an 11-year volunteer who works with patients in the Radiology Department, was a nurse for 50 years before retiring. She is also a cancer survivor, which allows her to relate to patients while they are waiting to learn their test results. "I really enjoy sitting there when the PET scan patients are there because families are scared, patients are terrified-they don't know what's happening. And I'm a cancer survivor, so I know what it's like to go through chemo. So, I can be empathetic as opposed to being sympathetic."

After a long professional career, Ray Turcotte began volunteering at Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) 25 years ago. These days, he can be found working the front desk at CMMC's YMCA. "I love to socialize, and hundreds of people come in and out of here," he said. "I know doctors and nurses-what's not to like?"

"It is a privilege to work alongside such dedicated and passionate volunteers," said Ashley English, system manager, Volunteer Services and Spiritual Care at CMH. "The incredible work they do makes a real difference in the lives of our patients, team members and visitors. It is truly inspiring to witness their unwavering commitment."

Among the services our volunteers provided:

• Flower Deliveries: 479
• Patient escorts: 51
• Patient Discharges: 880
• Lab Runs: 1,644
• Clerical Projects: 1,061
• Internal Deliveries: 1,626
• Handmade Items from Caring Stitchers: 452

This week, all volunteers who donate their time to CMMC, Bridgton Hospital, Rumford Hospital or in other locations throughout Central Maine Healthcare are being treated to luncheons in their honor.

Pictured: Ray Turcotte, a 25-year volunteer who works at the YMCA. Laura Cote, an 11-year volunteer who greets incoming patients at the Radiology Department; Rumford Hospital President Stephany Jacques, RN, speaking with volunteers at a luncheon, Mendy Goonan, chief patient experience officer, meets with CMMC volunteers