April 21-27 is National Volunteer Appreciation Week. At Magee, we are so lucky to have a strong group of dedicated volunteers. When deciding who to highlight for this post, there were many people to choose from. But only one person who has served more than 20,000 hours.
“It’s a 50/50 relationship. I help the patients and the patients help me.”
Barbara Hughes began volunteering at Magee in 1984, after hearing about the Hospital through a classmate who was a former patient. From the moment she entered the doors of Magee, she felt like she needed to be here. 20,000 service hours later, she still does.
“Magee’s energy and spirit just got inside me and keeps me coming back,” she said. “You could say I’m addicted to Magee.”
Barb began by volunteering in the library, assisting patients and families with materials. But that certainly wasn’t the only area of the Hospital she touched. She also volunteered in the gift shop, Alcove Café and volunteer services department. She now volunteers three to four days a week running Magee’s patient leisure activities.
Whether it’s Bingo and Poker night, Sports Sunday or Movie Night, Barb is behind it. And why?
“Because patients come first,” she said.
Barb’s presence is felt – and appreciated – throughout the Hospital.
“I truly couldn’t do my job without her,” said Jeff Doyle, Magee’s Guest Relations Concierge. “She is dedicated, and always there for our patients.”
As Magee’s Guest Relations and Volunteer Services Manager, I have worked closely with Barb over the years. She has shown great creativity and dedication in all of the volunteer roles she has taken on. We are honored that she continues to serve all the patients and families here at Magee, and extend to her our sincerest thanks for her extraordinary 20,000 hours of service.
Barbara Hughes will be honored at Magee’s 2013 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon during National Volunteer Appreciation Week on April 25. You can learn more about volunteering on Magee’s website.
