“Being a St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog member and having the privilege of visiting the Juravinski Cancer Centre has had a very positive impact on my life. There have been times when patients waiting to undergo a chemotherapy treatment, have been on the floor patting and hugging “Abbey” and don’t hear their own name being called for their procedure. It is very obvious that “Abbey” is making a difference and being a friendly, happy distraction from what is a very stressful time in these people’s lives. The strength and courage they exude each week is truly inspirational.”
Judy Robinson
Hamilton, Ontario
“One of the best rewards about being a member of St. John Ambulance Therapy Dogs Services is seeing the reactions of people we visit. A wagging tail or a sloppy kiss often triggers the memory of a dementia patient, of a dog they once had. Our dogs are often called many names, depending which dog is being remembered. A brief smile or groan may be the highlight of our visit, but we know our dog has reached inside their mind and made a connection. We are there to care and how lucky are we to be able to do it with our best friend.”
Earl Robinson
Hamilton, Ontario
“I consider volunteering with St. John Ambulance as a win/win situation for all involved. For myself personally, through St. John Ambulance I have met persons with the same interests as myself. To give back to our community; be in contact with interesting persons and the best of all to be able to do all this with my beloved four legged family member.”
Ida Fay Dartnall
Hamilton, Ontario
“The best thing about volunteering for St. John Ambulance for many Patient Care members is the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the health care field. Several of our members have taken their start in St. John and moved into careers in nursing, medicine, emergency services or paramedicine (such as myself), in great part due to their experiences as volunteers. It opens one's eyes to the larger world of prehospital care and emergency medicine, and allows one to give back to one's community. In a situation where seconds may count, St. John Ambulance volunteers save lives. The skills learned in training for St. John Ambulance are applicable to a variety of careers and lifestyles, and help to build confidence and strength of character. People who are capable of handling emergencies and thinking on their feet are better prepared to deal with unexpected situations that may arise in their own lives. Volunteering gives me a sense of worth, and of civil responsibility. Much of my personal growth into the person I am and the path my life has taken are due in large part to my involvement with St. John Ambulance. It is a debt I am happy to repay for as long as I can.”
Michael Thomas
Mississauga, Ontario
“The best thing about volunteering with SJA is that I can learn more knowledge about first aid that I can really use in my daily life and because of this I have become more confident. If I volunteered for another type of organization, what I could do is no more than making friends and offering my service. I would highly recommend my friends to join SJA to make more friends, to learn more first aid knowledge, to acquire higher qualifications in first aid and to get more confidence. ”
Andrew Ling
“I have a greater appreciation for all the great programs offered through St. John Ambulance and volunteering gives me the opportunity to education the public about these programs. My life has changed because I am actively involved with the elder residents of the community which has made me more aware of the many lonely people who really appreciate a visit from a St. John Ambulance volunteer.”
Diane Ellsworth
Winnipeg, Manitoba