April 13, 2016
Becky and Scott Lindsay are grateful for the help of volunteers like Sharon Lett in looking after their six-month-old triplets. From left, Lett holding Alyson, Becky holding Caitlyn, and Scott holding Hailey.
Story by Colin Zak | Photo by Janet Mezzarobba
When Scott and Becky Lindsay found out they were having triplets, they knew they would need some extra help.
After three little girls Alyson, Caitlyn and Hailey arrived, help was on its way, thanks to a unique Alberta Health Services (AHS) volunteer program.
Caring Hands brings in-home volunteer assistance to families that have twins, triplets or other sets of multiples.
“Having a volunteer around is like having a new family member,” says mom Becky. “She gives me three hours of sanity. I can leave the room, take care of myself and the house, and do all the things I wouldn’t normally be able to do.”
Caring Hands is just one of 381 volunteer-supported programs in Calgary Zone. And during Volunteer Week (April 10-16) AHS is celebrating the important role volunteers play in Alberta.
Last year, 4,775 AHS volunteers in the Calgary and surrounding areas gave 356,170 hours of their time Launched in November 2015, Caring Hands offers weekly volunteer visits lasting two to three hours to provide support for babies and respite for parents. The program is organized through Calgary Zone’s Community Home Care Volunteer Program.
The program has now grown to six volunteers supporting three families in the Calgary Zone.
“Doing this for the family gives me time with three little girls and a wonderful family,” says Sharon Lett, who visits the Lindsay family every week. “The family has a happy, relaxed home, and is able to enjoy each other more with the extra help. I feel good contributing to that.”
Lett helps with everything from feeding to changing to general care.
“The program is called ‘Caring Hands’ because it offers a much-needed extra set of hands that mom or dad need to get things done,” adds Lett.
Diane Polesello, volunteer co-ordinator with Peter Lougheed Centre (PLC) and Home Care, says that without volunteers, programs like Caring Hands simply would not be possible.
“Our volunteers bring their skills, talents, experience and passion to AHS programs and services,” Polesello says. “They are able to make a difference in the lives of patients and families every day.
Dad Scott agrees.
“Having Sharon around means extra peace of mind,” he says. “I work shift work and it’s comforting to know someone is here helping Becky.
“This works for our family and helps us plan the days I won’t be here to help.”
For more information or to apply as a volunteer with Calgary Zone Volunteer Resources, visit albertahealthservices.ca/info/page10840.aspx.
