Description
VOLUNTEER SERVICES
Friends, Inc. serves patients of all ages who live in the Madison County area. We are the only organization that provides transportation to those who live in the county as well as those in the city limits.
Elderly patients and their families make up the largest part of Friends, Inc. recipients. Services are especially helpful for those who are ineligible for hospice or home health care that is provided by insurance. MostFriends, Inc. patients live alone, do not have family close by, or are new to the area. Some patients have families in the area but are over extended and need additional outside support.
Friends, Inc. volunteers know from experience that many people do not have adequate support from family, friends, or church to manage a health crisis. Frequently the only family members are children who can’t afford to miss their work as often as the sick parent needs help. Outside assistance can oftentimes provide enough help to keep a patient out of a nursing home. Volunteers help bridge the gaps in the overstretched health care system.
A large portion of those receivingFriends, Inc. services are cancer patients. There are thousands of cancer patients receiving treatment in the Huntsville area. Many families callFriends, Inc. for help in getting patients to treatment. Volunteers provide transportation and also offer support to patients experiencing the emotional lifestyle change that seems to go with a cancer diagnosis.
