With deepest gratitude, we wish Lois Eastwood all the best as she steps down from volunteering at Aultman Orrville Hospital. Now nearly 88 years old, Lois has served the hospital for 16 years, giving more than 8,500 hours of her time in service to staff, patients and families.

Where do you live?

Orrville, Ohio

What made you decide to begin volunteering?

Years ago, when I brought my dad in, everyone was always so nice, and they made us feel comfortable and cared for. I decided that when I retired from my position as supervisor of custodians at the College of Wooster, I wanted to do that for others. I cared for my dad first, and then reached out to Aultman Orrville Hospital about volunteering.

In what department(s) do you volunteer?

When I first started, I helped in the Emergency Department. Since then, I’ve served in many areas of the hospital.

I now serve at the front desk three days per week from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. I sign people in and show them where things are in the hospital. I make people feel welcome, show them that we’re glad they’re here and demonstrate that we’ll take good care of them.

I’ve always enjoyed serving here at Aultman Orrville Hospital. But now that I can’t walk as well as I used to, I decided to retire.

What do you like best about volunteering?

I like feeling helpful and useful. People are very appreciative of the help we provide.

For anyone who is thinking about volunteering at Aultman Orrville Hospital, I would tell them that they will have the opportunity to be useful and help others. People want to feel needed, and volunteers have meaningful responsibilities here. It’s very rewarding.

Tell us about your loved ones.

I have a big family – six children, 17 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.

What’s next?

I like to read, play Words With Friends and get together with others to play dominoes and cards, and I will have more time for that.

The family is getting together for my upcoming birthday, and I’m excited about being about to spend time with everyone.