Renown’s Volunteers Make Magic Happen
Renown volunteers generously provide their time, talent and support to those in need across Renown Health. This month, in celebration of National Volunteer Month, we want to recognize the incredible contributions of our volunteers who serve in various roles, from providing healing music or haircuts to offering companionship with friendly pets and more.
Join us as we celebrate the hundreds of Renown volunteers who dedicate their time daily, exploring several unique roles in the Q&A below:
Meet Alexandria Cannito and Her Pet Therapy Dog “Penny”
Q: What inspired you to become a Renown volunteer?
A: After a childhood dog attack, I had a paralyzing fear of dogs. I was fortunate enough to work with a therapy dog to overcome that fear, and I knew I would one day train a dog to do therapy work. Penny has been the sweetest and most gentle dog since she was a puppy, so I knew therapy work would be a great fit for her from the start! I've always received quality care from Renown, so it was the obvious choice to volunteer and give back to staff and patients.
Q: In what way(s) does your unique role as a Renown Pet Therapy volunteer impact our patients and their families?
A: It's amazing to see the smiles on patients and family members when they visit Penny. They also seem to relax when she arrives. Often, patients have dogs at home or are missing a pet. Visiting Penny allows them a moment to cuddle with a furry friend and hopefully brightens their day.
Q: What's the most rewarding part of your work as a Renown volunteer, or is there a story that has touched you?
A: The most rewarding part of pet therapy is seeing the joy Penny brings others. Once in the pediatric unit, we visited a young lady who loves dogs. She got out of bed and wrapped her arms around Penny. While they cuddled, she told me facts about dogs and mentioned that the little boy next door would love a visit from Penny and that she should let us go. I would have happily stayed as long as she wanted us to visit with her. Seeing this young lady thinking of others while facing her own struggles was touching. It was a really sweet moment that brought tears to my eyes.
Meet Renown’s Own Volunteer Barber, Omar Guerrero
Q: What inspired you to become a Renown volunteer?
A: I wanted to donate some of my time away from my normal workdays. I understand the power of a haircut and thought Renown would be the perfect place to implement haircuts for patients who wanted them.
Q: In what way(s) does your unique role as Renown’s volunteer barber impact our patients and their families?
A: Sometimes, all you need to feel better is a nice haircut. I am happy to contribute in a way that can have a positive impact.
Q: What's the most rewarding part of your work as a Renown volunteer, or is there a story that has touched you?
A: I am grateful for some pretty amazing people who have done things for me in my life, and I have always considered volunteering as a way to pay it forward.
Meet Renown’s Volunteer Pianist and Singer, Cindy Sabatini
Q: What inspired you to become a Renown volunteer?
A: I started volunteering as a pianist and singer because I wanted to share my gift of music with families and staff passing through the lobby or level above, who could also enjoy it.
Q: What's the most rewarding part of your work as a Renown volunteer and pianist?
A: I’ve had people stop and listen. It's especially fun if someone pushes a patient down from a room in a wheelchair to listen. It’s so great seeing their smiles.
Meet Renown’s Musical Volunteer, Janis Green
Q: What inspired you to become a Renown volunteer?
A: I've only been playing the harp for about two years and am still learning and practicing. My dad built a harp for me that is small enough to transport but has the sound of a full-size harp.
Inspired by a vision of playing music in Renown Regional's Tahoe lobby, not just once but twice, I asked God if I should play there, and he answered with a "yes." I hope to bring his peace and presence to those waiting for their loved ones to get out of surgery.
Q: What's the most rewarding part of your work as a Renown volunteer who plays the harp and sings?
A: I never imagined I would be playing music at Renown. Some days I'm nervous, but the feedback has been so inspiring to me, that I am happy to be here. Here are some of the things I've heard patients say:
- A guy once leaned over the balcony and said, "I needed to hear that. Thank you!"
- After half an hour of playing, a couple told me they had been at the hospital for weeks, and the music had made them feel calm.
- An older gentleman listened to an entire song and came up to me with tears in his eyes, saying it was such a beautiful song; the words really spoke to him.