Yellowknife (Apr 08/05) - A hospital visit isn't often a cheerful occasion.

But a half-dozen volunteers at Stanton Territorial Hospital are doing their best to ensure patients find a ray of sunshine.

Carey West, volunteer services co-ordinator at Stanton, said volunteers seek out ways to cheer patients and make them comfortable.

"Laughter is the best medicine, so we're able to provide that," West said.

Volunteers provide a few chuckles and sometimes fill in the role of a parent for an ill child, West said.

"We're able to provide that cuddle time and that love that they are not getting," she said.

West said after the initial application process, volunteers have a choice of where they would like to donate their time.

The cuddle program on the obstetric unit gives mothers a break.

In the pediatric or extended care units, volunteer can help with recreation programs.

Volunteers also will take patients for walks or have one-to-one visits.

In the emergency department, the volunteers will get supplies ready for staff or hand out refreshments to waiting patients.

"I can focus more on the patients and the volunteers are able to help," West said.

Joan Robinson, a volunteer in the pediatric ward for about one year, said she participates in the cuddle program.

"I come in and help with the babies to give the moms a break. I also help sort out the toys and keep the coats organized," Robinson said.

Volunteering is an important part of her life.

"I love being around kids because mine are grown," she said.

Terry Brookes also enjoys the time he spends at the hospital.

An amateur magician, Brookes gets many smiles from performing his magic tricks. "It's a fun thing. You just break up the time and you see a smile. It's very satisfying," Brookes said.

"It leaves them a memory and takes them away from some of the stress."