Teen Volunteers Spread Cheer

(left to right) Patient Corinda Pecchio enjoys visit
with Cheer Team members Carina Gobes,  Jenna Rugel,
Nandini Adhikari, Katie Johnson and Max Tansky

Our teen volunteers support our patients and families in many ways. One way they provide support is serving on Cheer Teams, visiting with patients and families to uplift their spirits.  

One of our Cheer Teams, all good friends, was full of zest one Friday afternoon as they met with their patients and families at Stratford Court of Palm Harbor assisted living facility. They spread cheer singing a mix of holiday tunes. They couldn't think of a better way to spend their afternoon.

“Cheer Team is fun. I really like to do it. The patients may have no one to talk to and we can fill that void,” said Nandini Adhikari as her team gathered beforehand. Carina Gobes agreed, “It’s a good feeling. They say this is good for them but it’s good for us, too.”

The cheer team prepares to delight Corinda with a song

On this day, the team had fun bringing music to one of their dearest couples at Stratford. In the future, the teens hope to learn how to do the do si do square dance, which has been requested. They aimed to do whatever they could to bring happiness to this couple. “You look at them and think that’s what I want to be like in 80 years,” said Jenna Rugel.

Making a Connection 

The team looks forward to volunteering each week. They enjoy spending time with their patients – listening to stories, delivering crafts, laughing, singing, dancing and even praying.

“We have had a patient who doesn’t speak English but is religious. He prays to us in Polish,” said Max Tansky. Carina added, “It’s almost like language isn’t a barrier.”

The teens do grow close to their patients and feel a loss when they die. But they appreciate all the time they do get to provide compassion and joy. “I remember one of our patients who died. We only had three visits with her. It’s cool to have had that bond with them. And you know they are in a better place,” Jenna said.

Do you know any teens who are interested in becoming volunteers? Please call for information on our teen volunteer program.