Author: Leslie Toldo
For two decades Kathy Carrithers has dedicated her life to service as a volunteer. On March 15 she celebrated 20 years as a member of the McLaren Flint auxiliary.
“I love this hospital, and I love serving. It is a joy,” Kathy said.
Kathy’s mother was a longtime volunteer at a Saginaw hospital, and when Kathy retired from Delphi/GM, she knew she wanted to follow in her mother’s footsteps.
“When my mother was dying of cancer, I promised her I would become a hospital volunteer,” Kathy said.
Kathy, a breast cancer survivor, knew she wanted to volunteer at McLaren Flint.
“I had my cancer surgery and radiation here, so this made the most sense to me,” Kathy said. “I believe the Lord placed me here. Every day, every hour I am here, I can help someone.”
She has served as Auxiliary president and a board member. Kathy works in the gift shop, hands out blankets and other items made by her fellow auxilians to patients, and does volunteer orientations. She also helps with vendor sales, all of the hospital’s special events, and coordinates the therapy dog program. Outside of McLaren she teaches a women’s bible study and participates in “Adopt a Highway”.
“I will do whatever I can to help anyone. The other auxiliary members know they can count on me,” Kathy said.
Kathy’s energy and love of McLaren are well-known and much appreciated by staff.
“I wake up anxious to come to the hospital,” Kathy said. “I love the book ‘The Purpose Driven Life’, and I feel I have made a difference here, which is important to me.”
To learn more about joining the McLaren Flint Auxiliary and the different ways you can volunteer, click here or call (810) 342-2009.