Grandson's miraculous recovery motivates Sugar Grove volunteer

Bill Roeder, 80, of Sugar Grove, has been volunteering for Presence Mercy Medical Center in Aurora for so long that he can't remember when he started.

But he clearly remembers the day when his volunteer work took on greater meaning for him.

On April 6, 2013, Roeder's grandson was in a serious car accident.

"His injuries were so severe that the first responders initially pronounced him dead, but fortunately the Aurora Fire Department revived him and brought him to Presence Mercy Medical Center," said Roeder. "My grandson was in intensive care for eight days. His lost his spleen but otherwise recovered completely. The staff at Presence Mercy saved his life."

Roeder was impressed with the help and support that his family received during his grandson's recovery, and now he is proud to be able to return the favor by volunteering twice a week at Presence Mercy. A former insurance man, Roeder enjoys lifting the spirits of patients, staff and community members.

"I'm the gofer in the short-stay unit on Mondays. I escort patients back to their rooms, work with registration, assist family members, but most importantly I tried to help the patients relax when they come in," said Roeder.

On Thursdays, Roeder delivers meals to the community as part of Mercy's "Meals on Wheels" program.

According to Laurel Serrurier, manager of volunteer services at Presence Mercy Medical Center, Roeder is a joy to have around.

"Bill is such a wonderful, loyal volunteer," said Serrurier. "We look forward to seeing him, as we do all of our volunteers, whenever they provide the gift of their time."

Roeder is just one of the over 110 volunteers who provided more than 14,000 hours of service to Presence Mercy Medical Center last year. In addition to helping out in the care units, you'll find volunteers in the gift shop and front desk. Volunteers also deliver flowers and mail to patients.

In appreciation of their selfless dedication, Mercy Medical Center will honor volunteers at a recognition dinner April 13 during National Volunteer Week.

"Our volunteers provide services that simply would not be possible without them. We appreciate everything they do in the many different roles helping to provide a better experience for our patients and visitors. Our volunteers take the time to truly make a difference," said Serrurier.

While Roeder is happy to be recognized, he points out that he benefits from volunteering just as much as those he helps out do.

"I get so much satisfaction out of helping others. It really provides me some self-worth," said Roeder. "Plus, it beats the heck out of playing golf."

For more information about volunteering at Presence Mercy Medical Center, call (630) 801-2665.