Highlighting volunteers at St. Joseph’s Health Care London
Meet Cyril Hartland, Nathalie Ross and Carolyn McPherson, three volunteers at St. Joseph’s Health Care London (St. Joseph’s) who collectively contributed 5,000 hours of volunteer service between 2023-2024.
Through their efforts, Cyril, Nathalie and Carolyn have not only supported the hospital but also enriched the lives of patients, staff and fellow volunteers, embodying the heart of the St. Joseph’s community. Now, they’re being recognized at the provincial level at the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards, presented by the Ministry of Citizenship & Multiculturalism.
Cyril first moved to Canada from the United Kingdom in 1973 and spent his career as a heavy-duty truck mechanic. After two spinal surgeries, he began volunteering in 2012 as part of his recovery, starting at Parkwood Institutes’ Information Desk and expanding his efforts across multiple units, from the Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Program to the Veterans Care Program.
Cyril continues to volunteer his time at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Mount Hope Center for Long Term Care, helping receive, price and distribute stock for the organization’s five gift shops and variety stores.
“My favourite part of the job is bringing a smile to people’s faces every time I am there—it makes everything worthwhile,” shares Cyril.
Nathalie has been volunteering for six years, contributing her skills across gift shops and receiving operations. Ross thrives on staying busy and finding purpose.
“I like helping people, and it’s nice to meet new people. Volunteering gives me a sense of fulfillment, shares Nathalie”
Nathalie enjoys training new volunteers and seeing them confidently take on responsibilities, taking pride in the positive impact her efforts have on patients and the hospital community. She also values the friendships and connections she has made through volunteering, which keeps her active, engaged and inspired.
For Carolyn, volunteering became an important part of her rehabilitation following a car accident. Following her long career in banking, McPherson was able to bring her organizational and program management skills to St. Joseph’s Hospital, assisting with library cataloging.
“It was rewarding to be able to use the skills I developed in my corporate career to help the hospital,” she reflects.
Over the years, volunteering also allowed Carolyn to test her abilities post-accident and gradually expand what she could do in a safe, supportive environment.
Their dedication, energy and care have made a tremendous impact in the St. Joseph’s community.
“We value all our volunteers here at St. Joseph’s”, adds Tracy Drenth, Manager of Volunteer Services. “Their time, dedication and hard work impacts the lives of those in our care and we’re incredibly grateful for their willingness to go the extra mile each shift. We thank and congratulate Cyril, Nathalie and Carolyn, on receipt of the Ontario Volunteer Services Award.”