A Beacon of Kindness: Meet Rod Lewis, the Heart Behind the Help at BCHS

Meet Rod Lewis, a dedicated volunteer at the Brantford General Hospital’s (BGH) Ambulatory Care Centre. You may have seen his friendly face around the main level, where he helps direct and assist patients to their appointments. Not only does Rod know his way around the place like the back of his hand, but he also serves as a beacon of positivity, bringing comfort to many of our vulnerable patients.

Originally born in Wales, the 80-year-old local resident moved to Canada to attend the University of Toronto, where he enrolled in the Psychology program. He successfully completed his studies and chose a career as a preacher. Rod has always had a presence in hospitals, and regardless of the circumstances, he provides comfort, hope, and positivity to everyone he meets. His passion for brightening someone's day or eliciting a smile from someone who may be having a rough time does not go unnoticed, and many of his colleagues wholeheartedly agree.

“Rod is an excellent volunteer,” says Kari Astles, Volunteer Engagement Senior Coordinator. “He can empathize with the patients and use humour to put them at ease before their procedures.”

We interviewed Rod to learn more on his volunteering journey and how his role positively impacts the hospital, consistently driven by a desire to help.

When did you start volunteering? How did you get into this?

I began volunteering in February 2019 at the information desk as a People and Resources Navigator, located at the A Wing entrance of Brantford General Hospital. I assisted with walk-in inquiries, phone calls, and requests from staff throughout the hospital. It was an interesting experience.

Over the years, I have spent a lot of time visiting people who were hospitalized. During these times, I always appreciated the assistance I received from volunteers when I sought information. As my retirement years became less busy, I decided to explore this activity further.

What inspires you to volunteer here?

Having a hospital in our city greatly benefits our community. In many other areas where there are no local hospitals, people often must travel great distances for essential medical care. Our hospital relies on the dedication of knowledgeable professionals who work daily to fulfill its healing mission. I feel inspired knowing that through my volunteer work, regardless of how large or small the contribution may be, I am helping the staff achieve their important goals in this vital institution within our community.

What do you love most about volunteering?

Coming through the doors of a hospital can often be a confusing and daunting experience, which raises anxiety for patients and their families. So, whether it's giving directions in the hallways or processing folks through ambulatory care with a measure of sensitivity and personalness, I feel that I have helped them lower their anxieties in being there. This feeling is often proven by their expressions of appreciation to me along the way.

Are there any special moments you would like to share that you may have experienced here with a patient?

A special moment of appreciation occurred when a woman accompanied her father for a medical procedure. I later learned that he was quite nervous about it, but my interaction with him, along with others in the waiting area, helped ease his anxiety going forward. Later, the woman wrote a note expressing her gratitude for the support I provided to her father, and the administration forwarded that note to me!

What keeps you motivated?

I believe my motivation stems from my personality, which is inherently hard-wired to help people in their times of need. Volunteering at the hospital allows me to fulfill that part of myself. I am motivated by the genuine expressions of appreciation I often receive from the hospital staff for my contributions. Sometimes, the tasks I perform may not seem significant to me, but the wonderful staff regularly remind me of how much they value my volunteer efforts amidst their demanding work schedules. My personal interactions with patients and their families inspire me to continue my volunteer work.

 “It is evident to visitors and patients just how much he enjoys his work as a volunteer. We have recruited several new volunteers thanks to him being a great ambassador for the volunteer program at BCHS.”

June is also Senior’s Month in Ontario, and Rod shares a valuable message on the many contributions seniors bring to the community.

“Seniors like me have had many years of life experience, along with a variety of highly trained skills and abilities,” emphasizes Rod. “Their ideas and efforts matter, and there are many ways by which people and service institutions throughout our community can benefit by all that seniors have to offer to volunteer activities.”

Kari also mentions how Rod is a great spokesperson for the volunteer program. “It is evident to visitors and patients just how much he enjoys his work as a volunteer,” says Kari. “We have recruited several new volunteers thanks to him being a great ambassador for the volunteer program at BCHS.”

Rod adds, “As a senior, I have chosen to volunteer at Brantford General Hospital, and I continue to enjoy my time there. I invite others to consider if this might be a meaningful activity for them as well.”

For more information on volunteering at BCHS, please visit: Volunteer – BCHS.