Vern and Nancy – Finding Purpose, Friendship, and Love Through Volunteering

Vern has been a Hospitality Volunteer at Oshawa Hospital since 2011. Over the past 15 years, he has become a familiar and trusted presence, warmly welcoming visitors while also looking out for ways to improve the hospital environment – whether identifying safety concerns, noticing misplaced items, or sharing observations to the Volunteer Resources team. 

Vern often says that he “works for the public.” For him, volunteering means supporting people during moments of uncertainty – something he understands deeply. Years ago, while anxiously waiting for cancer treatment, a volunteer sat with him and offered a brief but meaningful conversation. That simple act of kindness eased his stress and stayed with him. After retiring soon after, Vern knew he wanted to do the same for others. 

Volunteering also brought meaningful friendships into Vern’s life. As a cycling enthusiast, he met fellow volunteer, Brian, and the two now ride together as part of Brian’s Team Smiley in the Ride for the Ridge event. Within the hospitality team, he also formed friendships with fellow volunteers such as Donna, Angie, Leslie, and Carol – friendships that extended beyond their shifts and helped carry them through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Nancy’s path to volunteering was also shaped by personal experience. After her late husband spent his final weeks at Oshawa Hospital, she began volunteering in 2018 at the auxiliary café and with patient surveys.  She quickly became known for her warm conversations with staff, patients, and visitors and finds meaning in every shift.  

It was during Vern’s regular Wednesday visits to the café that he and Nancy first began chatting. Vern would stop by during his shift to pick up a small treat, and over time, those brief conversations with Nancy became a regular part of his weekly routine. After the death of his wife, what started as simple, friendly exchanges gradually turned into longer conversations and a growing friendship. 

Over time, they discovered shared interests and a deep connection.  What started with a simple invitation for coffee – something Vern often did with fellow volunteers – soon grew into a meaningful relationship. 

Today, Vern and Nancy share their lives together and recently celebrated their marriage – a beautiful new chapter that began with a simple conversation at the auxiliary café. 

Through volunteering, both have found purpose, community, and connection. As Nancy reflects, “Loss of a partner requires you to reinvent your life.” Their story is a reminder that volunteering not only supports others - it can also open the door to healing, friendship, and new beginnings.