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Stanton honours dedicated volunteer corps

Daniel T'seleie
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Apr 30/04) - After years of volunteering, Dawn Lacey is still keen to share her free time with others.

"I think we receive more than we give," said Lacey, a regular volunteer at Stanton Territorial Hospital.

That's a common sentiment among hospital volunteers who were recognized recently for their work at the Volunteer Recognition Tea.

"We do get paid -- in fulfilment in helping others," said Terry Brookes, volunteer magician at the hospital.

Chuck Parker, CEO of the Stanton Territorial Health Authority said "each of you light up our lives."

Margaret Purdy, president of the Stanton Territorial Hospital Auxiliary said the goal "is to provide comfort to patients." The auxiliary runs the hospital gift shop. All the proceeds go to the hospital patients in the form of furniture, washers and dryers, televisions, books, headphones, toiletries and even some medical equipment.

Lacey is one of the Songbirds, a group of three who sing for patients every Wednesday.

"All three of us believe in the healing power of music," said Lacey.

Sometimes the patients sing along, but even when they can't Lacey says you can see their faces light up.

"There are so many ways that people communicate," Lacey said.

A good thing to do

After her mother was in the extended care unit of a Saskatchewan hospital for six years Lacey jumped on the opportunity to help others in the same situation.

"I thought this would be a good thing to do," Lacey said.

Brookes had knee surgery last year and knows how boring sitting in a hospital bed can be.

Four months ago he decided to bring some variety to the hospital, and the reaction has been great.

"The jaws just drop down and they don't say a word," Brookes said.

There is more than just magic going on though.

"You get a chance to talk with people," Brookes said.

He likes to get others involved in his tricks instead of just putting on an act and leaving.

"The best tricks are when someone else gets involved," Brookes said.

Many of the 50 volunteers had other commitments Wednesday and could not attend the tea.