Volunteer
Lisa Mahylis retired from
Campbell County School District in Gillette, Wyoming in 2012. An Occupational Therapist by training, Lisa
was looking for a way to be involved in healthcare again without the commitment
that goes with an actual job. She talked to Campbell County Health
Volunteer Coordinator
Chris Buxton about opportunities for patient interaction.
Chris suggested that Lisa might be able to help out in the
Dialysis Center. Patients on dialysis suffer from End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), meaning
that their kidneys function very poorly, or not at all, requiring long,
thrice-weekly dialysis treatments to remove impurities from their bodies.
Since January, Lisa has spent Monday mornings in Dialysis, helping make
the ‘shift change’ go smoothly. Two sets of patients are treated
each day, and the dialysis machines, chairs and areas around them must
be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before the next patient is treated.
With Lisa’s help, the transition happens more smoothly and efficiently.
“We consider Lisa a wonderful addition to our team,” said Dialysis
Manager Lori Hoesing.
Lisa does much more than simple cleaning. She talks to the patients, and
can pass on important information to nursing staff.
“Sometimes the patients may forget to tell the nurse something during
their treatment,” said Lisa. “I can help be that extra set
of eyes for what is a cohesive, well-oiled machine. Every time I volunteer,
I learn more about the patients and more ways I can help them. They welcomed
me with open arms.”
If you're interested in learning more about
volunteering with CCH, please contact Volunteer Coordinator
Chris Buxton at 307.688.1536 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/volunteer.