North Shore staff and volunteers celebrated for hard work and dedication

The HOpe Centre at Lions Gate Hospital was abuzz last Thursday afternoon as it filled up with North Shore staff, volunteers and physicians who were celebrated for their years of hard work and dedication. Although not all attended, 291 North Shore staffers had 10 or more years working for VCH as of 2016.

Among the many people feted at the annual North Shore Long Service Recognition Event was Margaret Ray, who was honoured for her 55 years of volunteering.

Margaret started volunteering as an LGH Auxiliary member in 1961, the same year the acute tower opened. She has volunteered in different areas of the hospital, but the one area that she holds closest to her heart is the Information Desk. Why the Information desk?

Margaret replied that her passion is people and being around them is what makes her happy. In the last 10 years alone, Margaret has contributed 400 hours to LGH.

“Everybody who works in health care whether as an employee or volunteer is motivated by a desire to make a difference in people’s lives,” says Rocio Andrews, Manager, Volunteer Resources (VCH-North Shore). “On a daily basis, I see the commitment of our volunteer team; imagine sustaining that commitment over 55 years.”

Mike Nader, Chief Operating Officer, Coastal, received his 15-year pin while honouring a number of staff members with 35 or more years of long service.