Volunteer Stories
Dave Shaw
“After my retirement in 2010 I decided to volunteer at Metro as a mentor to others to demonstrate there is life after tragedy.
I find it extremely rewarding, being able to pass on information encouragement to make the most patients’ time in rehab that will help them to reinvent themselves into their new normal. When volunteering, I am able to motivate and demonstrate the ability to be independent, to answer questions about equipment and accessibility at home and in the community with the patients, their families, and the therapy staff too. As a quadriplegic for 45 years, I am blessed to be able to help others thru this time in their lives and to continue to be a useful member of the community.”
“Dave Shaw is a valuable volunteer! He presents real life scenarios and possibilities to patients who have recently experienced an injury or traumatic event. Dave is passionate as an advocate for up-to-date equipment in the therapy areas that have benefited him in the community. We are grateful to have Dave as a volunteer!
Michelle Kenny Supervisor of Therapy Services PM&R • P M & R - THERAPY MetroHealth Old Brooklyn Health Center
Bud Preston
MetroMusic Volunteer
“They say that music is the universal language. But it is so much more! In my role as a father and friend I can say all the right things to try and help my loved ones to rise from their bout with anxiety, depression, or fear from medical uncertainties, but all too often, words never are enough. In my role as a professional guitarist, I find that if a play a peace that matches the emotions of my listener, I can transport them to another place and time, giving them relief in the moment while the music connects.
I volunteer because playing to a heart in need is one of the greatest privileges I can ever experience.”
Lisa Martinez
“I began volunteering at MetroHealth to see if the medical field was the right career path for me and now, I know it is. I get the chance to make patients, and their families feel like they have someone in their corner and that is something I must pursue.” – Lisa Martinez
More Stories
Mike's Story
Michael "Mike" Falatach is a recipient of a 2023 Medical Mutual Outstanding Senior Volunteer Award. The program shines a spotlight on some of the most impactful yet unsung heroes across Ohio and celebrates older adults who selflessly give of their time and talent to help the people and communities around them.
Tracy's Story
Tracy Greenberg is the recipient of a 2023 Most Treasured Volunteer Award from The Center for Community Solutions. Tracy's volunteer work at MetroHealth has left a lasting legacy. As a member and co-chair of the System's Patient and Family Advisory Council, she helps improve the experience and eliminate potential barriers to care and healing for patients and visitors – especially those with physical challenges.
Michele's Story
“Everything is done with donations, and I do all the orchestrating: cutting the kits, finding people to help sew and washing everything before giving MetroHealth and other area hospitals the quilts.”
Herb's Story
“The ‘a-ha’ moment came when I said, ‘I’m ready to give back. I want to help someone else get through this. I want to share my story and my experience.'"