A little touch

What are some of my experiences during my time volunteering at Hospital?

When visitors first come to the Hospital, they must check in at the front desk. I greet them and ask them why they are here. Usually they are here to visit a patient. So I look up the patient's name in the computer and tell them the room number. They then have to sign in, show me their ID card and then I give them a wristband.

Seems simple enough, yet you cannot imagine the difficulties this often presents. Some of them refuse to wear the wristband. Others don't have any picture ID. Others make a signature instead of reading the instructions and simply writing their name legibly. Some mumble complaining about the procedures and then say "why it is so hard to get into the Hospital?". So I really have to be prepared to patiently answer to all these questions or complaints .

But I can never prepare myself for the most difficult situations: those who come to visit their child in the ICU or ER. The first thing I notice is the trembling in their hands when they sign in. I feel such pity for them and wish there was something I could do to help them.

I don't know the details, but I can see the fear in their face. The only thing I can do for them is offer a little comfort as I hold their hand in mine for a few seconds. I then see a little smile and a "thank you" in their eyes.

These moments are so emotional for me. Each time I thank God that my family and I are all healthy.