After retiring early from Kansas State University, Lisa Heller found herself missing the daily interactions that had been a part of her life. “With my two children leaving home and not having interactions with people in person,” Lisa explains, it led to “an anxiety/depressive state. This was very scary for me and my family.” Seeking to regain that connection, Lisa felt drawn to an idea she’d always considered: volunteering at a hospital.
“I love that the hospital has given me purpose. It fills my heart with joy to be able to make people feel at ease…it feels like home to me!”
— Lisa Heller, Hospital Volunteer
Today, Lisa is a vital part of our volunteer team, dedicating four days a week to helping in three different areas: the Surgical/ICU waiting room, GI/Endo waiting room, and Admissions. “I love helping wherever I am needed,” she shares.
For Lisa, volunteering at the hospital has provided a profound sense of purpose. “I love that the hospital has given me purpose,” she says. “I try to make folks feel comfortable, because they are here for a reason, and it fills my heart with joy to be able to make them feel at ease, too.”
Lisa’s compassionate nature shines through in her interactions with families, especially in the surgical and ICU waiting areas during difficult times. “I have had so many families go through trying times and I give them their space, but also let them know I am there for them and ask if they would like a hug,” Lisa recounts. “People have accepted a hug and sometimes cry during our hugs. I try to tell them it will be okay and just offer my support for them during this difficult time.” These moments, for Lisa, are deeply meaningful.
Lisa wants the community to understand the significant impact volunteers have. “You are helping people that really don’t want to be here, some that are scared and maybe feeling uneasy,” she explains. “The feeling of being able to make people feel welcomed, seen, and heard is important.” Her hope is to make their experience a positive one, reminding them that there are people ready to help. Beyond helping patients and families, Lisa has also found a new community, saying, “I have also been making friends with the folks that work here. I love working at the hospital—it feels like home to me!”