As National Volunteer week kicks off, the London Health Sciences Centre is recognizing the work of its volunteers and one special couple’s milestone.

Cindy Collins, manager of Volunteer Services at LHSC, said in a statement “We are very grateful to our volunteers. Their daily presence provides an invaluable service to our patients, families, and visitors.”

Don and Sandra Allaire are among the over 900 volunteers that help with 90 programs at Victoria Hospital, University Hospital and the London Regional Cancer Program.

Now the couple has been recognized for 10 years of service at LHSC, though they have been volunteering for decades more, at churches and other hospitals before their move to London in 2001.

In a statement Sandra says volunteers can help alleviate stress for patients and visitors, “Having someone help you find your way around is much appreciated. If you’re a people person and feel that you can make a difference, then volunteering at a hospital is something to consider.”

The couple have been volunteering for most of the 53 years they have been married, and say they enjoy volunteering together and enjoy the friendships they have made through the work.

And the couple is just two of the hundreds of volunteers that help make it easier for visitors and patients to make their way around the hospital.