The Power of Volunteering: Courtney’s Mission to Help Others

Courtney shines as a volunteer at Shriners Children’s Shreveport, where she now gives back to the team that played a vital role in her care.

Born with cerebral palsy, Courtney started receiving care at Shriners Children’s Shreveport when she was a toddler. She spent several years receiving treatment and had intensive surgery when she was 14 years old. “I did rehabilitation every day for a month,” she said. “Through the years, I received nothing but unwavering support from the staff. I saw the impact they had on patients' lives, including my own. This inspired me to want to be a part of a mission to help improve kids' lives.”

Courtney has been volunteering at Shriners Children’s Shreveport for a year now. Her role involves escorting patients to various departments like radiology, Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services, and rehabilitation. But it’s in the rehabilitation department where Courtney’s presence truly shines. “I help motivate the patients in rehab. From personal experience, I know what a boost it can be to have someone cheering you on through the pain,” she said.

Her favorite moments as a volunteer are the connections she forms with the patients. One memory that stands out is when a young girl undergoing rehabilitation was having trouble making it through a therapy session. The therapists tried various approaches to keep her from crying, but to no avail. The crying continued until the patient noticed Courtney doing donuts in her power chair. This sight alone was enough to halt her tears. “The girl loved to hold hands with people,” she said. “She was nonverbal, so wanting to hold your hand was her way of showing affection. I remember she would look at me with her beautiful blue eyes and put her hand out to me, which I would take, reassuring her of my presence and support.”

What keeps Courtney coming back is the positive environment and the shared goal of improving children’s well-being. She finds it incredibly rewarding to give back her time to the organization that helped care for her when she was growing up.

For those considering volunteering, Courtney advises them to always be kind and compassionate towards patients and fellow employees. “Be open and willing to help in any way that you can,” she said.

Reflecting on her volunteer experience, Courtney expressed how grateful she was for the impact Shriners Children’s Shreveport had on her own life. “Without their support, I would not have achieved my current level of independence,” she said. “My family and I will be forever grateful to the staff for giving us the guidance and support that enhanced my well-being. I know there are so many other families who are grateful as well for Shriners giving them hope that their child can have a better life.”