INNISFAIL – Rose Winters remembers the days of candy stripers at the Innisfail Health Centre.
That was long ago but the memories remain.
Winters, the 84-year-old president of the Innisfail Health Centre Auxiliary, was recently going over historical albums and came across articles and photos of the hospital’s team of candy stripers; young high school women of yesteryear who were volunteering their time to learn and to help others.
“They (staff) had very heavy support from the candy stripers, who no longer exist in hospitals, which is too bad. They were with them for a long time,” said Winters. “The schools gave out certificates thanking them for pursuing their education the medical way. I don't know why they went by the wayside.
“It was very interesting reading all the old albums.”
The candy stripers may just be a memory at the hospital but not the auxiliary. Volunteers began their selfless service to the hospital and the needs of patients half a century ago.
And that 50 years of service was honoured on Oct. 28 with a special celebration in the auditorium at the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion Branch 104.
“This is just a particular thing we're doing because we want to thank Innisfailians and celebrate these 50 years,” said Winters.
For the many guests who came to salute the hospital auxiliary there was coffee or tea with apple and pumpkin pie with ice cream or whipped cream. There was also entertainment, a silent auction for gift baskets, and a table display showing the many fond memories of service.
“One of the big things they (auxiliary) made money with back then was the flea market and their beef on a bun together,” said Winters. “Of course, the flea market went down the tube as soon as people all started having garage sales. So, they gave that up and they just went to the strawberry tea and the beef on a button which is basically what we do now.”
Winters has been a hospital auxiliary volunteer for 10 years. She pointed out there are many others with much longer service, including 95-year-old Leah Hawick who has served with the auxiliary for 25 years.
Hawick said she is proud to serve and help the hospital and its staff and patients.
“We do a lot for the hospital and that's why we have these teas. At Easter time we have a tea, and the money all goes towards the hospital, whatever they need,” said Hawick. “I think we all work pretty good.”
The Town of Innisfail agrees.
Mayor Jean Barclay, along with Coun. Don Harrison and former councillor Heather Taylor came to the celebration to salute all members of the auxiliary.
“They have meant so much to the community and you know five decades of service is quite incredible,” said Barclay, who presented Winters with a Certificate of Recognition from the Town of Innisfail.
“And we see all the things that they have done for the hospital and for health care in this community. They are just a tremendous group of people and we're so grateful for them.”
