Sometimes, visiting the hospital can be a daunting experience. However, friendly faces like Julienne Burton make all the difference.
Julienne’s journey with Houston Methodist began in August 2006, when she was struck by the West Nile virus, leading to a life-changing hospitalization experience.
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“I just couldn’t stand up one day,” Julienne recalls, describing her sudden illness that left her unconscious and severely dehydrated.
After multiple visits to the emergency room and a prolonged stay, she was diagnosed with viral meningitis caused by the West Nile virus. The dedicated care she received from the hospital staff left a lasting impression on her.
Julienne vividly recalls the care she received during her hospitalization.
“There were so many wonderful people,” she said. “They asked me questions that I could answer. I couldn’t get out of bed by myself, but the staff made sure I was comfortable and supported. I was unconscious for a lot of the time, but I remember the staff being incredibly attentive. Even when I couldn’t respond, they treated me with such care and respect.”
She added that she appreciates the support she continues to receive from the hospital.
“The internal medicine doctor who saw me here had me come in for follow-ups. He told me, ‘Your recovery will take weeks and months. You cannot expect anything to happen quickly, so you just have to be patient and wait.’ That advice was invaluable.”
Motivated by gratitude, she wanted to give back to the hospital that provided her with exceptional care during a difficult time.
Julienne shared, “The care that I got here was unbelievable. That’s why I decided that whenever I retired, I would come back and volunteer because it was just amazing.”
She has been volunteering at Houston Methodist now for ten years, helping at the surgery desk and previously assisting with registration and pre-event testing. Her dedication and positive attitude have made her a beloved member of the volunteer team.
“I wanted to volunteer, because I saw firsthand the difference it makes to have someone there who cares. I wanted to be that friendly face for someone else. It’s an opportunity to put people at ease and make them feel a little better if we can,” she says, emphasizing the importance of providing comfort to patients who might be nervous or scared.
Julienne’s commitment goes beyond just showing up; she actively engages with the patients and staff, making sure everyone feels supported.
“I like helping out with the staff here. They’re also patients of the volunteers, and they’re just wonderful. But they need help. I mean, you know, and there’s just more that employees can do,” she notes.
Her dedication to volunteering stems from the gratitude she feels.
“I could not receive better care,” she said. “I wanted to give back to them because of the incredible support they provided me.”
Julienne also emphasized the importance of helping patients feel at ease.
“We see them not at their worst, but not always at their best. It’s an opportunity to tell them that they’re in the best possible hospital, and they’re going to get the best care in the world.”
If Julienne’s story has inspired you, consider joining her in making a difference. For more information on volunteer opportunities at Houston Methodist, visit their website or email hmwbvolunteers@houstonmethodist.org. Your involvement could bring comfort and support to countless patients, just as Julienne has done for so many years.