Ruth and Clyde Fulk are part of a volunteer force that, in a manner of speaking, keeps the wheels on the bus
Duke Raleigh Hospital is able to deliver extraordinary care to patients because of our top-notch physicians and staff, as well as the corps of reliable, dedicated, caring volunteers who serve patients and their families. Ruth and Clyde Fulk are long-time Raleigh residents and long-time volunteers who are essential to our team. The Fulks moved to Raleigh in 1977 for Clyde’s job in the insurance industry. They raised two sons here. Their sons, their wives and – now – seven Fulk grandkids also call Raleigh home.
The Fulks have had a special place in their hearts for Duke since their second grandson, Layton, had successful open heart surgery when he was 10 weeks old at the Durham campus. “He is now almost 13 and does GREAT!” reports Ruth. “He continues to be monitored by wonderful Duke doctors. We feel very blessed to be able to volunteer at Duke Raleigh Hospital as a way to give back.”
We have a special place in our hearts for the Fulks, too. We had a conversation with them recently about why they give so much of their time to Duke Raleigh.
Q. How and when did you get involved in volunteering at Duke Raleigh Hospital?
Ruth Fulk: I started volunteering at Duke Raleigh about eight years ago when the guild was formed. I love helping people and found that this is a wonderful way to contribute at a time when patients, their families and visitors need encouragement and friendly help.
Clyde Fulk: My wife, Ruth, was a Duke Raleigh volunteer at the time of my retirement. I retired at the end of 2010 after a 38-year career with N.C. Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company and Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company. I began volunteering at Duke Raleigh Hospital in April 2011. I volunteer four hours each morning on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Q. What do you do during your volunteer time?
Clyde Fulk: I shuttle patients, their families and visitors to and from the parking decks to their destinations. We have a number of buildings on campus, and that can be confusing for our visitors. Also, I help many people locate their cars in the parking decks.
Ruth Fulk: I volunteer in the Cancer Center every Tuesday morning for four or so hours. We help the staff and nurses with meeting the needs of the oncology patients and their families. On most Wednesdays, I work in the Guilded Lily Gift Shop in the lobby of the main hospital. All of the monies made are used for projects that benefit Duke Raleigh Hospital.
Q. What do you get out of your volunteering?
Clyde Fulk: I gain a great deal of satisfaction from helping our hospital patrons. Many are disabled or have difficulty walking to their appointments. I enjoy meeting and conversing with people. I also like to be outside. I may also pick up trash as I make my rounds.
Q. What would you say to anyone reading this who’s considering volunteering at Duke Raleigh?
Clyde Fulk: There are many opportunities to help patients and their families have a good experience at Duke Raleigh Hospital. We would encourage everyone who has a little extra time to consider volunteering. It is so very rewarding to be able to help others.
Find out more information about volunteer opportunities at Duke Raleigh Hospital
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