Retiree volunteer offers time, comfort to DGMC patients

  • Published
  • By Airman Kristen Rohrer
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  "Still Serving"

Going to the hospital for an emergency or just a routine doctor's appointment can often be a fearful experience for people, and many times patients, or families are left without any support system during what can be a difficult time.

This is when volunteers like Mrs. Marlene Paulson step in and lend a helping hand and a caring heart to those who need it most.

"There's a need for people to visit with the patients and share the love of the Lord," she said.

Mrs. Paulson is a chapel volunteer at David Grant USAF Medical Center, where her job entails visiting patients and families, making appointments for patients and staff to see the chaplain, making coffee and keeping the office stocked with "goodies" for everyone.

Mrs. Paulson is often called on to be with a patient or family until a chaplain is available.

"I try to meet the spiritual needs that people may have. We're always available for a hug or smile," she said.

Mrs. Paulson became involved with volunteering at the hospital in 1983 while visiting her niece who was ill with cancer.

"The hospital had open bays, not small rooms, like they do now," she said. Mrs. Paulson explained that made it easier to come in contact with other patients and their families.

While her niece was resting or at an appointment, Mrs. Paulson would talk to the other patients and their loved ones. This began what would become a 23-year career of caring.

Before volunteering at the hospital, Mrs. Paulson and her husband, a retired chief master sergeant, volunteered for various programs, including being youth leaders while stationed at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.

The only time during her 23 years at the hospital Mrs. Paulson didn't volunteer was two-year period starting in 1998 when she and her husband took some time to travel.

During her sabbatical she received a phone call explaining that a chapel volunteer was on vacation and asking if she would like to fill in. Mrs. Paulson has been back at the DGMC helping patients and their families ever since.

In addition to donating her time at the hospital, Mrs. Paulson and her husband also spend time volunteering at The Peak, an internet cafe near the dorms.

Mrs. Paulson explained the time that the chapel volunteers spend with patients and their families is very helpful in getting them through difficult times.

"It's one big family taking care of each other and it's about people caring during stressful times. This is a very worthwhile place to serve."

Editor's Note: This is the final article in a three-part series focusing on retirees working on Travis and how they contribute to Team Travis' success.