Rekha Govindasamy

Rekha has been a Child and Family Support Volunteer at RNCH for almost three years.

A Biomedical Science student at the University of Ottawa, with an innate passion for working with children, Rekha recalls feeling quite nervous during her first shifts at RNCH. “I had little experience with palliative care and carried some misconceptions about what it would be like. I also quickly realized that I would need new methods of interaction to work with many of RNCH’s children.”

Luckily, Rekha says, it didn’t take long to feel like a member the team. “The team at RNCH is a unit and together we make up a full circle of care. Staff are always willing to answer questions, teach, and help. I never expected to form such strong relationships and it is great feeling to be known by those I share a shift with.”

Rekha’s weekly shift takes place following classes in the early evening. “I start by checking in with the volunteers, reception, and nursing staff to find out what is needed. Next, I look for kids who might want to gather with others, read a story, or take a trip to the playroom. Every day can be different for these children, and I follow their lead depending on how they are feeling.”

Grateful for the opportunity to contribute in such a meaningful way, Rekha says that she also benefits personally with every shift. “This kind of work speaks to your soul. It puts you in a position to self-reflect, discover, and expand your world views. I have developed so much courage and confidence. The children let you know when you are doing a good job. And having their approval means the world.”

Cathy Auchinleck

Cathy began volunteering at RNCH when it first opened in 2006. A former nurse, lawyer and business owner, Cathy is now celebrating over 18 years of helping to run RNCH’s volunteer office. Asked what she hopes to bring to her role, Cathy says that she wants to be an encouraging resource for those interested in volunteering while also ensuring that the application and training process is accessible and streamlined.

As to what qualifications volunteers should have, a love of children tops her list. “You need a love of children and an empathy for children with disabilities and life-limiting illnesses. And we need active people because this is a busy and happy place for the most part. Volunteers are at the core of bringing these kids together to interact and make friends. The nursing work can be technically heavy at times, so volunteers are there to help bring fun experiences that these kids really need and enjoy.”

To best illustrate what she receives from her shifts at RNCH, Cathy reads a favourite quote by Mahatma Gandhi. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Sharing that for her, it also about witnessing the sense of pride that RNCH’s volunteers experience when they have been able to help someone and the way that the teams supports each other. “There is a wonderful comradery that exists between the volunteers and staff. Together we are a family.”