Sharon Agne - Volunteer Of The Month

Volunteer of the Month

Sharon agne

Sharon Agne, a member of Ascension Lutheran Church, has served as a CFNA volunteer for the past eight years. Here she briefly shares her story.

During my 46 year career as a Registered Nurse I have had experience in staff nursing, staff development and administration. Currently and for the past 20 years, I have worked for Lutheran Senior Services in Hospice, which cares for patients with limited life expectancy. This has been very rewarding, if only because we help patients with their final phase of life’s journey. Not surprisingly, there have been many opportunities to share my faith, which has been strengthened whenever these opportunities arise.

My involvement with CFNA began when I was introduced to Carol Buckman, who quickly took my name and invited me to join the Health and Wellness Screening team. My CFNA volunteer work began shortly thereafter at the Peace Center, where I assist with this ministry on the first Saturday of each month.

The most rewarding facet of nursing has always been helping others, and at CFNA I have had the added privilege of serving among people of various cultures. Seeing their faces, often with a warm smile – especially when we exchange greetings – has been a regular source of encouragement.

The biggest challenge has at all times been communication. Though capable translators are provided, children may also assist on behalf of their parents. Because many refugees do not arrive with their medical histories, obtaining this information can be a challenge. Kindness, a smile, and prayers get us through each screening.

To be sure, all of this has been a source of great blessing, if only because we serve as a dedicated group of health professionals with an equally dedicated ministry coordinator. Together we guide New Americans through the screening process, into other CFNA ministries, and sometimes into one of the nearby congregations – mostly Lutheran - as well.

A suggestion:  Prayerfully consider giving three hours a month to driving clients to their medical appointments.