These volunteer stories are poignant and deeply meaningful. We have much to learn about each other. We come to the Grace for different reasons, and we grow from the Grace in different ways. We learn from patients and staff in inconceivable ways. We see new parts of ourselves that are sources of pride and individuality. We are a team of volunteers, strong as one and mighty together!
Say Hello to Meghan!
When Meghan first started volunteering at The Grace in January 2024, she had no idea just how much this experience would shape her. What started as a volunteer role quickly became something deeply meaningful—an opportunity to connect with people in their
most vulnerable moments and make a real difference in their lives. As a Rehab Program Volunteer, she had the privilege of working closely with physiotherapists and occupational therapists to support patients in their recovery. Whether it was offering encouragement during therapy sessions or simply sitting with patients and listening to their stories, she saw firsthand how even the smallest gestures could brighten someone’s day. Some of the most rewarding moments came when she witnessed patients regain their strength—not just physically, but emotionally as well.
Over time, she took on a new role as a Quality and Patient Safety Volunteer, where she became involved in initiatives that enhance patient care. From conducting mini audits to collaborating on The Amazing Grace initiative, she has seen how small improvements can have a lasting impact. Knowing that her contributions help create a safer, more supportive environment for patients and healthcare teams alike has been incredibly fulfilling. One experience that truly reinforced her passion for volunteering was watching the
transformation of a patient who was initially hesitant about rehabilitation. Through continuous support and encouragement, they gradually gained confidence, engaged more in their therapy, and even began joining group sessions run by the rehab staff. Seeing their progress reminded her that rehabilitation isn’t just about physical healing, it’s about fostering a space where patients feel motivated, supported, and empowered!
In Meghan’s words, “TGHC has become more than just a place where I volunteer—it’s a community that has shaped my perspective on healthcare and human connection. The kindness and dedication of the staff and fellow volunteers inspire me every day. This experience has not only strengthened my passion for healthcare but has also shown me the incredible impact of compassion and support. I feel truly grateful to be part of this journey and to contribute in any way I can.”
Thanks for all you do, Meghan! Your insights and contributions are invaluable.
Say Hello to Shruti!
Shruti started volunteering at The Grace in May of 2024. She was looking for volunteer opportunities in healthcare when she came across the Arts at the Grace program at TGHC. She felt that it was a good fit for her as she loves doing art herself and sharing that
felt like a good opportunity. She volunteers for the Arts at the Grace Program as an Art Volunteer where she primarily works with patients to do arts and crafts projects.
What she likes the most about volunteering at TGHC is the ability to provide patients with a creative outlet. When she curates activities for patients, there is always some element of customization, whether in colour choices or changes to designs. It is always nice to see what patients come up with and how different everyone’s ideas and preferences can be. She is also grateful to volunteer in such a close-knit community. On her first day of orientation, she learned from the Volunteer Manager that The Grace is like a community,
and she has always felt that when volunteering. The Recreation Therapists, Joanna and Filipa, have also been very supportive throughout her volunteer journey.
In Shruti’s words, “Two moments come to mind when asked what the most rewarding moment of my experience is. The first is the joy of reconnecting patients with the arts. I’ve worked with so many patients where they or their loved ones tell me that the patient used to paint back in the day or do arts and crafts but lost touch with it. Being able to reconnect individuals to the arts and seeing the joy they experience is a great feeling. The other Grace moment that comes to mind is when I was working with a patient who actually had her partner visiting but she really wanted to paint. Rather than having her paint alone and having him watch, I offered to guide both her and her partner through a painting to create a nice little memory for both of them. They ended up having matching watercolour landscapes.”
Thanks for all you do, Shruti! Your actions have brought hope and inspiration to many.
Say Hello to Oliver!
Oliver started volunteering at TGHC in November of 2023, but his journey with hospitals began long before that. Throughout high school, he spent months at a time as a patient due to lung complications. Through those experiences, he learned that the hardest part wasn’t the physical pain after surgery, it was the loneliness. Even with the occasional visits from family and interactions with nurses, there were long stretches of time when he was left alone with his thoughts. Being isolated like that isn’t just
boring; it can take a real toll on your mental well-being. No form of entertainment can replace human connection. That’s why he chose to become a volunteer. He understands that isolation all too well, and he wanted to be there for patients in the way he wished someone had been there for him—a familiar face, a conversation partner, just someone to pass the time with.
Oliver volunteers in the Complex Continuing Care unit on the 4th floor, where patients with ongoing medical needs receive care aimed at improving their function and quality of life. His role is simple – he talks to patients, offering companionship and a listening ear.
The best part of volunteering at TGHC is, without a doubt, the stories I get to hear. Every patient has a lifetime of experiences, and getting to hear them is a privilege. From babysitting celebrities to directing theatrical plays—every week, I hear something new and fascinating. These conversations remind me that everyone, no matter where they are in life, has a story worth telling. Beyond the stories, I love seeing the impact that a simple conversation can have. It’s amazing how just sitting down and chatting with someone can impact their day.
One moment that has stuck with me was when I met a patient whose first language wasn’t English, but Portuguese. She struggled to communicate with staff and often felt isolated because of the language barrier. When I introduced myself and tried to start a conversation, I could tell she was hesitant—tired of trying to communicate. She thanked me for saying hi but told me the language barrier was too much. I suggested something different: what if I could help her practice English, and in return, she could teach me some Portuguese? From then on, we met every week for an hour or two, exchanging stories about our lives. This experience taught me that sometimes people just need a little encouragement. Even the smallest gestures can make a big difference.
Volunteering at TGHC has been an incredibly rewarding experience and I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with patients, hear their stories, and hopefully bring a little bit of light into their days—just as they do for me.
Oliver- Your thoughtfulness and compassion greatly enrich patient experience.
Say Hello to Margaret!
With Margaret’s training in grief and bereavement and thanatology, she was seeking a volunteer opportunity that would allow her to combine her professional experience with her core values. Toronto Grace was the perfect match, and she has been honored to volunteer on the Palliative Care floor for a number of years. When people ask her “why volunteer at Grace?” her answer is always the same “it feels like home.” From the moment that she enters the hospital; she is greeted with friendly smiles from the staff and fellow volunteers.
Every day is different from impromptu dancing in the elevator with our housekeeping staff, to helping patients fill their passports with trips to far off countries in Recreation Therapy to helping the nurses in any manner needed. From day one the entire palliative care team has welcomed her with open arms and warmth. They are always there to answer a question, share a laugh and allow her to bring in her personality and patient centered approach. Additionally, she has been able to grow in her role as well to in turn train new volunteers to the Palliative Care floor which is always an honor to be trusted in this manner.
However, her interaction with palliative patients is the favourite part of her position. Upon entering patients’ rooms, she reassures them they are not alone, hold their hands if they offer, engage in conversation or simply sit with them in their final moments of life. Additionally, she is there with a hug, gentle words of encouragement or a warm drink and comfort for family members and loved ones. She believes the greatest gift to be given is the opportunity to hold space for someone else.
In Margaret’s words, “A number of the patients have left a lasting impression on me; one patient, after learning that I was unable to cook, resolved to have me learn how to prepare one meal before they died. Every week, they would make me a recipe, and I had to report back on how it came out (with pictures). Spoiler alert: I still can’t cook well. Another patient, who knew how much I loved Christmas, set out to beat me at Christmas Carol trivia and eagerly awaited my arrival with a fresh piece of trivia. Another adopted a grandmotherly manner and wanted to pass on their life wisdom to me, which I gladly accepted.”
Although palliative care does have an end, patients and staff/volunteers experience a great deal of compassion, laughter, and connection during their time.
You are special and wonderful, Margaret! Your generosity and support truly transform the patient experience.
Say Hello to Jacob!
Jacob began volunteering with the Rehab team at TGHC in April 2024. As a third-year kinesiology student, health and fitness professional, and aspiring physical therapist, he sought more handson experience to prepare him for future work in a clinical setting.
Working with the rehab team has been wonderful, as he has picked up a wealth of information regarding the timelines and recovery processes of a number of pathologies. The experienced, talented and friendly team of PT’s and OT’s that work on the floors do an
exceptional job and give ample inspiration for his future career choices.
His favorite part of volunteering at TGHC has been getting to know the patients. A huge part of the rehab process is building interpersonal relationships, and he has really enjoyed hearing the amazing array of stories the patient population has to share. It is a joy to watch the recovery process take place, and as much as he hates to say goodbye to patients, it’s always wonderful to see how excited they get when the rehab is done, and they are able to return home.
In Jacob’s own words, “A few months ago, I was chatting to a patient and discovered he was the father of one of my favorite actors! While we did ambulatory work, he shared some great stories about his son with me which I never would have otherwise heard. The patient was amazed I was a fan of his son’s work, and we shared some good conversations together after that. It just goes to show you never know who the patients are until you talk to them!”
Jacob, your contributions make a lasting difference, reaching and inspiring many.
Say Hello to Sofia!
Sofia started volunteering at TGHC in May 2024. She has always had a passion for the healthcare field and patient care. As a university student, she wanted to grow her experience in the healthcare setting, and she is so happy that she was able to do so at TGHC. She had her volunteer orientation with Rima, who is so kind and supportive, and she was able to help her pick the volunteer program that was right for Sofia.
She volunteers in the Recreational Therapy program helping with setting up and bringing patients to and from their rooms for many different Rec Therapy events such as meditation and well-being, seated yoga and movement events, trivia, bingo and group games. She also gets to interact with patients one on one by playing board games or card games, crafts, having conversations or doing different activities together, which can vary on the person.
Some of her favorite things about volunteering at Toronto Grace are the people; the Recreation Therapy team is always so nice and understanding, they create a super positive environment that makes her excited to come in for every shift. Being able to get to know the patients and spend time doing fun activities has been some of her favorite highlights of volunteering. Also, making connections with and friends with other volunteers has been an amazing opportunity to meet many people who are also passionate about helping others. The sense of community at TGHC makes every shift feel meaningful, and it is also very inspiring to see the patient’s progress and improvements over time. Volunteering here has been really rewarding and helped her develop valuable communication and teamwork skills that I know will benefit me in the future.
In Sofia’s words, “A favorite experience is playing many games of scrabble with a patient, who shares my enthusiasm and passion for this game and taking part in group scrabble games, which were very fun. Another favorite experience of mine at TGHC was helping with unique recreational therapy events like the baby chicks and the outdoor meditation in the beautiful garden patio in the summer.”
Sofia – Your kindness and dedication to supporting patients make a profound difference.
Thank you for being part our team.