Holland Hospital volunteer Mike Keyes was once a patient at the hospital where he received treatment for a brain injury. Courtesy of Holland Hospital
Mike Keyes doesn’t remember every name or face, but he remembers the gratitude. A smile from a patient, a quick “thank you” from staff, or a warm nod from a visitor as he wheels a patient down the hall.
These moments are the quiet reminders of why he’s been volunteering at Holland Hospital for 15 years.
“I don’t know how many people I impact each day,” Keyes says. “Maybe two or three, maybe more. I just hope it’s a positive one.”
It’s more than that, says Megan Cadle, Holland Hospital’s lead volunteer coordinator, who describes Keyes as a bright spot in the hallways.
"We’re really thankful for our volunteers like Mike,” says Cadle. “They make a huge difference here. Mike is a success story, a best-case scenario of someone who got a second chance, and he inspires a lot of patients.”
From patient to volunteer
Keyes’ journey as a hospital volunteer began in 2008, not long after a brain bleed nearly took his life. After 10 days as an inpatient and three weeks in outpatient care, he was introduced to volunteering during his rehabilitation. What started as a suggestion from his speech therapist has become a calling that keeps him busy and connected.
“The person I worked under went on maternity leave, and since the rehab was connected to the hospital, they helped me transition into a role as an errand and escort volunteer,” Keyes recalls. “It’s been a good fit for me, and I’ve been doing it ever since.”
Over the course of his service, Keyes’ contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of countless patients and their families. His time has been spent volunteering in Errand and Escort, which is dedicated to helping hospital guests and employees with a variety of duties, from running food trays, supplies or lab specimens to transporting patients.
Keyes volunteers two days a week, assisting with tasks like delivering supplies, transporting patients, and simply offering a friendly presence.
“It keeps me active and my brain engaged after everything that happened,” he says.
Brings empathy to his work
Beyond the activity, it’s the human connection that drives him.
“I enjoy talking to people and learning about their stories,” he says. “It’s a way to give back to those who might benefit from some hope or perspective.”
His empathy runs deep, shaped by his own experiences as a patient.
“Sometimes, I help with things that remind me of what I went through during my recovery. It’s a humbling experience and makes me realize how lucky I am to be here.”
Cadle describes Keyes as a shining example of the impact volunteers can make.
“Volunteers like Mike add a personal touch to patient care,” Cadle says. “He’s always chatting with patients, asking about their plans, and brightening their day. It’s that kind of connection that makes a hospital feel welcoming."
Keyes has inspired his others with his volunteer service. His children have followed in his footsteps, volunteering at the hospital during their high school years.
Holland Hospital, with a team of more than 200 volunteers, understands the essential role people like Keyes play in enhancing patient care and hospital efficiency. Volunteers support a variety of roles, from patient navigation to clerical tasks and specialized care.
"We get constant kudos from staff about how friendly and outgoing Mike is,” says Cadle. “He’s a great example of the impact volunteers can have."
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