Hospital Visits

In response to Cynthia Osofsky’s letter (Jan. 2), I, too, wanted to volunteer my services on Christmas Day but could not find a volunteer organization to be a part of for that one day.

I decided to try the Veterans Hospital in Westwood, and when I told the gentleman at the information desk of my desire to visit any patients who had no relatives or other visitors, he thanked me for coming.

I was only able to visit with two patients, and could offer each only my company and attention for an hour or so, but both men were surprised and grateful that someone had come just to be a friend.

Every day there are thousands of patients in hospitals with no one to visit them. (My two patients are homeless.) In many hospitals you can walk into any room (in unrestricted areas) and offer your company. Or, as I did, ask one of the floor nurses who he/she thinks might need you most.

This is one way for those of us with little time available to make a difference in someone’s life. And it’s usually no problem talking to your new friends. Most of all, they need someone to listen.

KATHERINE AHLERT

Los Angeles