Volunteering Helps Survivor Adjust to Life After Stroke

International Volunteer Day is held each year on December 5 and is viewed as an opportunity to bring focus to, and thank volunteers.

“I knew something was wrong when I couldn’t stand or move,” says Rudy.  “It was scary.”

At 56, Rudy had a stroke that robbed him of motor skills many of us take for granted. He was immediately rushed to hospital and had lost his ability to walk more than five steps at a time without falling. Rehab began and continued after his release.

“It not only gives me a reason to get up and out of bed, it makes me feel like I’m part of a valuable team that supports people in need.”

“My stroke prevented me from continuing my job as a correctional officer,” says Rudy. “Rehab suggested I volunteer to help with my recovery.”

While recovery was overwhelming, Rudy credits his volunteering with The Salvation Army as playing an essential role in rebuilding his life. “It not only gives me a reason to get up and out of bed, it makes me feel like I’m part of a valuable team that supports people in need.”

Every week, Rudy helps The Salvation Army’s food bank in Hamilton sort food and assemble food baskets and snack bags.

“I want to help The Salvation Army as long as I have breath and can walk.”

“When I go home after volunteering, I feel energized and my spirit lifted,” says Rudy. “I want to help The Salvation Army as long as I have breath and can walk.”

Last year, more than 130,000 people across Canada gave the priceless gift of time and skills to help The Salvation Army. We are grateful for each one who enables us to reach more people who are struggling and help them find a way out of poverty, permanently.