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The most valuable part of David Chmielewski’s day is spent meeting with and talking to patients and their families, ensuring their stay at BWH runs as smoothly as possible.
Chmielewski is a volunteer at BWH, serving as a liaison between staff, families and patients in the Cardiac Diagnostic Intervention Center. “More generally, I act as an advocate for the procedural patients and their families. I try my best to relieve the tension of everyone in our section—employees, patients or family members,” he said.
Chmielewski believes that attitude plays a large role in the wellness process, an understanding that he has developed first-hand, having undergone open-heart surgery twice. “I know what these people are going through, and I simply try my best to make everyone’s experience here easier,” said Chmielewski. “Some people benefit from having someone there to listen, while others take comfort in hearing my story.”
“David is truly a hero because he takes such good care of our patients and their families.He always goes three steps beyond his duties,” said Elaine Garland, administrative coordinator, Volunteer and Community Access Services.
“I did not begin my service here to win praise, but I am very grateful for this recognition,” added Chmielewski.