Augusta University
Michaela Martinez
A number of Augusta University Medical Center volunteers give back to their community as Patient and Family Advisors. These volunteers are former patients who donate their time to help the hospital’s mission of Patient and Family-Centered Care. They serve by advocating for the needs of patients based on their experience as former patients themselves.
Patricia Lee, better known as Pat is proud to serve as a dedicated Patient and Family Advisor (PFA). She began her volunteer journey after recovering from a car accident that left her with memory loss and depression. Grateful for the care she received during her recovery, she wanted to find a way to give back and was recommended as a PFA by a friend and fellow volunteer.
Pat began volunteering as a Patient Family Advisor more than 5 years ago and has generously donated more than 395 hours of volunteer time during her tenure at AU Medical Center. She says the most valuable information she has gained through volunteering is how to take care of herself through self-love and how to give back to others in a meaningful way.
“The joy of seeing families and patients receive 110% quality care is what I most like about being a Family and Patient Advisor Volunteer”
-Patricia “Pat” Lee
When asked to describe her experience as a Patient and Family Advisor Volunteer, she said: “caring, giving, and joyful”.
Pat has recently been nominated by her department for the AUMC Volunteer of the Year recognition. Her dedication to the quality of care our patients receive is outstanding. The Volunteer Services team, medical center staff, along with the patients and families that interact with Pat, are so fortunate to have such a caring person on their side. Her willingness to serve is sincerely appreciated and valued.
If you find Pat’s story inspiring and would like to know how you can give back and volunteer please visit our AU Volunteer Services webpage.
