11 Apr Ronald McDonald House Volunteer Spotlight: Lori Burke

Gillian: Why did you begin volunteering?

Lori: I recently retired after back surgery and felt like volunteering at the Ronald McDonald Family Room. Our family spent three years off and on at RMHC in Salt Lake City for our son Austin, who was diagnosed at the age of fourteen with cancer. We spent three years back and forth for treatment. We were so thankful we had RMHC, so therefore, I decided to give back by volunteering.

Gillian: How often do you volunteer?

Lori: I volunteer on Tuesday and Thursday from ten to noon.

Gillian: What are some of the typical tasks you do when volunteering?

Lori: I sanitize, clean, mop, sweep, cook, date foods and drinks.

Gillian: Tell us about the first time you volunteered at the Family Room.

Lori: The first time I volunteered, I made dinner for the families. Lori Priest, a Family Room staff member made me feel very comfortable.

Gillian: Tell us about your most memorable experience while volunteering at the Family Room.

Lori: One of my most memorable experiences is hearing updates about my friend’s daughter, who was born prematurely four months early. She is strong and growing well. I get weekly updates from her mom, and they are anticipating that she can go home in May, as she approaches two months old.

Gillian: How has your life been impacted by volunteering?

Lori: Knowing that I can bring a smile to the families faces, listen if they want to talk, and meet the patients and their parents has deeply impacted me.

Gillian: What is something you have learned while volunteering?

Lori: The RMHC of Idaho Family Room is a fantastic resource for parents. It provides a welcoming place to stay, along with food, snacks, drinks, and excellent management that makes parents feel very welcomed.