On April 26th, Loma Linda Hospital recognized volunteers for their hard work and many hours they contributed to helping others. In order to qualify for the award, volunteers had to work a certain amount of hours.
For instance, the hours ranged from 100 to an astonishing 2100 hours. I started volunteering at Loma Linda Hospital in Oct. 2015, and I recently made it past 100 hours. Each volunteer received a certificate of appreciation award and was given a microphone to speak about how long they’ve been volunteering and why they decided to volunteer.
When it was my turn to speak on the microphone, I said I was a two-time cancer survivor. I had cancer when I was 14 and 17, but when I was 17 years old I lost my right leg to cancer. I also said I did my chemotherapy treatment at Loma Linda Hospital. When I said that… I felt an energy of amazement from the audience, and as I scanned the room I noticed some of the people were immersed into what I was saying.
I said I volunteer on the same floor where I did my chemotherapy treatment, and I knew I always wanted to give back. When I talk to the patients and tell them my story, they can’t believe that I was ever a cancer patient. I also said I give them hope so they could one day be in my shoes. I told the audience that I was an inspirational speaker, and was looking forward to inspire people with my story.
I spoke in front of an audience of about 30 people, and I was nervous, but confident while I was speaking. This was also the first time I could see that my story could have a powerful impact on people’s lives because it is different, unique and special. I felt the audience wanted to know more about what I’ve been through, which was a good feeling because it gave me confirmation that I’m on the right path.
Right before the banquet ended, the volunteer staff said that all the volunteers are appreciated and are an incredible asset to the Loma Linda Hospital institution.
At the end of the banquet, a woman approached me and said my story was inspiring and she asked if I could speak at her church. I gave her one of my business cards and she said she’ll be in touch. I’m looking forward to her reaching out to me, and thankful that she is considering me to speak at her church.
I’m learning to trust God and not worry about being successful when I want it to happen.
* I volunteered at Loma Linda Hospital on April 29th, and there was a special guest named Nilu who was a singer and she performed for the patients. Her music was really good, and in my opinion her style reminds me of Norah Jones mixed with Nina Simone.
Check out her music here: http://www.nilumusic.com
Check out the certificate below:
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