Eleanor Lollo
During National Volunteer Week (April 21-27), Stony Brook University Hospital is celebrating our hospital volunteers for the many contributions they make daily to enhance the patient experience.
Eleanor Lollo, a resident of Stony Brook, has received the honor of the 2024 Volunteer of the Year. Eleanor began her service in June 2015 and has contributed more than 700 hours of service to our patients and their families.
Eleanor first joined the volunteer team to assist with patients undergoing treatment in the Stony Brook Cancer Center. Eleanor would visit patients to offer snacks or beverages or to have a conversation. Her mission was to make patients as comfortable as possible.
After a pause in service due to the pandemic, Eleanor eagerly returned to the hospital, this time to serve patients who are seeking treatment in the Inpatient Pediatric Unit. Sarah Schoepp, Certified Child Life Specialist, gave countless examples of Eleanor’s ability to connect with patients and support their families and notes that Eleanor is a valued member of the Child Life team. In addition to working with patients, Eleanor also mentors new volunteers.
Eleanor always has a welcoming smile and puts patients at ease, especially those who frequent the hospital. In one instance, she used her own crafting skill of crocheting to help a long-term patient use her free time during her hospital stay. Eleanor sparked a new love of crocheting for this patient. She would bring in patterns, different sized hooks and yarn so that the patient could continue her projects in Eleanor’s absence. This is just one example provided by the Child Life staff of how Eleanor has made a difference in a child’s life.
Stony Brook University Hospital is grateful for Eleanor’s dedication and invaluable contributions as our Volunteer of the Year, exemplifying the spirit of compassion and selflessness that defines our volunteer team. We extend our sincere appreciation to Eleanor and to all the remarkable volunteers who tirelessly serve our hospital during Volunteer Week and beyond.