My name is Patricia Stone. I’m from Sequim, Washington. I’m sixty-six years old.

I just lost my son on June twenty-second. Type one Diabetes. It was a real aggressive thing. He was thirty-seven. But I’m grateful for what I have. These people, the majority of them, have way less than I have. They’ve been through a whole lot more than I have in my life. And I want their life to be better.I want every minute to be worthwhile to the people that live here and to All Hands and Hearts.

Anybody should do it. No matter what age. If you’re afraid, don’t be afraid. If you’re not sure, just come try it. You’ve got everybody here that will help you. If you don’t know something, they’ll teach you. If you do just a little bit, even a week, it’s worth it. 

My son always wanted to do this. Volunteering was a combination of a dedication to my son and to help others. It sounds weird. But I love everybody in a way, I don’t know, just like family. I call them all my kids. I learn a lot from the kids. They learn a lot from me. And it just passes on. 

You’re a better person after this. It’s a great thing. It’s just super good.”