Seeing Double at the Info Desk: Meet Twin Volunteers Samantha and Natalie

For the past year, sisters Samantha and Natalie have been great additions to the QCH volunteer team, bringing their kindness, energy, and empathy to the Information Desk.

Despite their busy schedules—both are enrolled in similar Neuroscience programs at Carleton University, hold the same part-time jobs, and share hobbies like running, playing piano, and walking their dog—Samantha and Natalie still make time to volunteer together.

Their connection to QCH runs deep. When their grandfather began receiving cancer treatments here, the family was touched by the kindness and care he experienced. “He always said the staff made his visits easier,” Natalie shared. “That really inspired us to give back in the same way.”

Both sisters say the best part of volunteering is connecting with patients and families. “It can be difficult seeing people under stress,” Samantha explained, “but knowing we can make their experience even a little better is so rewarding.” One moment that stuck with them was when they helped a man who was having trouble walking, find the Emergency Department. After offering him a wheelchair ride, he told them: “You have no idea how much that helped me. I’m so thankful.”

With career aspirations in healthcare, they say volunteering at QCH has given them invaluable exposure to patient interaction and the fast-paced, sometimes stressful hospital environment.

Their advice for other people considering volunteering? “You gain such a strong sense of community here,” Natalie said. “You meet people from all walks of life, and if you’re thinking of going into healthcare, this is the best way to understand what it’s really like.”

Interested in volunteering? Visit our main website and fill out an application form here.