Actually, any stroke survivor or family member has what it takes! Stroke ambassadors are people who are willing to share their wisdom, experience and friendship to those who are in the acute stage of stroke. We currently have several Stroke Ambassadors; each one volunteers their time to do what they are good at.
For instance, one man comes to the Inpatient Rehab unit once a week to help in the physical therapy group by playing games with them. One lady is an editor and contributing writer to The Stroke Scoop e-newsletter. Another comes in to visit with patients and their families. And another man does computer data entry for the Comprehensive Stroke Center. As you can see, it takes all kinds!
If you would like to know more about volunteering and helping others who are where you once were, please call Louise Jenkins, RN, BAS, Stroke Program Coordinator at Southwest Washington Medical Center, at 360.514.3273.
Stroke Ambassador Volunteer Role
In addition to your primary role as a supportive listener, you will:
1. Provide meaningful support to stroke families in a reassuring atmosphere of confidentiality and acceptance.
2. Act as liaison between family and nurses, physicians and other hospital staff.
3. Be an advocate for the patient and family by answering non-medical questions, and calling appropriate resources when a problem arises that affects the welfare of the family.
4. Provide information to stroke families as how they can best utilize hospital services.
5. Accept training, guidance and supervision by professional staff.
6. Recognize and acknowledge limitations either personally or as a volunteer, and ask for help promptly.
7. Reinforce the vital link between the Medical Center and the community.
8. Adhere to professional rules of conduct and ethics while acting as a goodwill ambassador for Southwest Washington Medical Center.
