Making Time for Patients: A VNA Volunteer Story

Maria is the Senior Partner at The Shinn Law Firm, LLC in Lakewood. She’s been providing pro-bono legal services to VNA of Ohio Hospice for almost 20 years.

Maria provides free legal services to patients and families. “I really feel like I’m contributing and making a difference in people’s lives,” she told us. In this capacity, she helps prepare living wills, powers of attorney and health care directives and provides guidance to patients’ families in administering estates. As all VNA of Ohio patients are homebound, she usually talks to the patients over the phone and then drives to patients’ homes and to speak with them one-on-one.

Her dedication to patients, on top of a demanding job and her involvement in many local projects in Lakewood, is tremendous.

"Maria provides her legal services with kindness, compassion, and generosity of spirit," said Dora Harper, VNA of Ohio Volunteer Coordinator. "I have been with VNA for the last nine years and Maria always said yes when I called her with the referrals. It has been a blessing to work with Maria!"

“I’m happy to be able to help people out when they have a significant need,” Maria said. “A lot of times, it gives them peace of mind because they’re in a very difficult situation and if I can ease their mind and help them out, then I think that’s wonderful.”

Watch the video below to learn more about Maria, her advice about finding the time for volunteering and about the benefits of hospice care.

For 115 years, VNA of Ohio’s volunteers have been the backbone of the organization. From wrapping gauze to making phone calls to providing free legal services to making intricate cards that make people smile, VNA of Ohio would like to extend a sincere “thank you” to all who devote their time and resources that better the lives of our patients and their families.

How to Get Involved at VNA of Ohio

Learn more about how you can help at VNA of Ohio. Call us today at 1-877-698-6264.