Thanks to the efforts of staff and volunteers, the Gift Shop has raised almost 2 million dollars. The Auxilliary has used this money to aid the medical center and its patients with the following.
- Wheelchairs for patient transportation
- Special blood storage refrigerator for Lifestar to help with immediate lift off and response
- Rocking chairs for new mothers and surgical patients
- Digital cameras used in the intensive care nursery for family photo albums
- Blood pressure machines for patient care
- Blanket warmers for the cancer patients undergoing treatment
- Support for Camp Rainbow--the bereavement camp for children who have lost one or both parents
- Renovation of the Preston Medical Library
- Scholarships
- A heightened sense of well-being
- An improvement in insomnia
- A stronger immune system
- Speedier recovery from surgery
- Lower your blood pressure
- Increase your social awareness
- Reveal hidden strengths and talents
- Build your independence and self initiative
- Expand your social interactions
- Create more fun in your life
"I am a widow. I serve soft drinks, coffee and snacks to cancer patients. I volunteer so I am able to help comfort and give them encouragement because they are going through the same thing I am, cancer."
"I have been a volunteer since 1967. As a member of the UT Faculty Women's Club I was recruited and have worked in many areas: book cart, surgery lounge, pediatrics and the gift shop. By the way, my husband also volunteers here."
" I wait on people taking chemotherapy. I also play the piano in the waiting area to entertain our patients while they wait. I like sharing my talents with others. I like having a purpose in life, helping others. It's nice to feel needed and wanted."
"I am a widower. I thought I would pay back for the way my wife was treated. Now I do it because it makes me feel good. I made some good friends along the way."
" I work in the gift shop, weigh candy, blow up balloons and sell flowers, toys and books. I love to do things for other people. I love being around people. I do it for the fun and fellowship."
"I arrange for wheelchairs, make coffee, clean beds in the emergency room. I take families to various special rooms. I keep blankets warm to keep patients comfortable. I volunteer to give back the service that was given to my family and me during my husband's illness. It makes me feel like a better person."
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