SCCA Volunteer Spotlight: Miggie Olsson
Miggie Olsson was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a decade ago. For 18 months she underwent treatment at SCCA, which consisted of chemotherapy, surgery, then chemotherapy again followed by radiation. Ever since then she's been cancer-free and it was her experience as a patient at SCCA that led her to volunteer here.
Miggie Olsson was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a decade ago. For 18 months she underwent treatment at SCCA, which consisted of chemotherapy, surgery, then chemotherapy again followed by radiation. Ever since then she's been cancer-free and it was her experience as a patient at SCCA that led her to volunteer here.
“SCCA saved my life when other facilities would have given up on me,” says Miggie. “Everyone understood what I was going through, and their positive attitudes helped me get through the treatment.”
Her time as a patient also got her familiar with the organization and allowed her to make an easy transition into the Guest Services desk role—a job she has been doing since 2009. “Every day is different and presents interesting challenges. I learn a lot from the people who approach the desk and from my desk partners, and I just enjoy the traffic and conversations when I am there.”
The Guest Services desk, located on the main floor of the SCCA clinic, acts as an information hub and gateway to Seattle for patients and their family members. Volunteers in this role have a variety of responsibilities including distributing donated tickets to patients’ families, escorting patients in wheelchairs, and the popular service of providing candy. Since the Guest Services volunteers have constant interaction with patients, it’s not surprising that Miggie has had her share of memorable moments with patients.
One encounter she remembers especially well happened after Volunteer Services received four donated tickets to a Sounders game. Miggie was tasked with making sure they went to a soccer fan. One day, a patient’s husband who was an out-of-state soccer coach approached the desk. “I was sitting there looking at these tickets wondering how I was going to do that, when [he] approached and asked if we ever got Sounders tickets. When I offered him the tickets he had tears in his eyes! It was incredibly rewarding to make such a difference in someone's day.”
When Miggie isn’t volunteering she spends time gardening, cooking, or renovating a 100-year old house. Her enthusiasm towards volunteering sets a great example for new volunteers and provides a positive experience for the patients.
“I want to make sure I give people something to look forward to even if it’s just a piece of candy.”
SCCA Volunteer Services has nearly 20 different volunteer roles in various departments. If you are interested in volunteering, learn more here.
