The healing that comes from human connection can mean all the difference for a Veteran who is faced with an illness or injury. That’s why Soldiers’ Angels conducts patient visits at VA hospitals and medical centers across the country. We understand that healing power comes with the physical presence of someone who cares.

A gentle touch of reassurance. A word of encouragement. The brief flash of a smile. These may seem like small gestures to some—but when Veterans are faced with the loneliness, isolation, and fear that can accompany a hospital stay, these simple acts of kindness are treasured like gold.

In this article, we hear from three Soldiers’ Angels volunteers in three different cities. They talk about why they love patient visits with Veterans and share meaningful moments that keep them coming back.

What Happens During a Patient Visit?

When our Angel volunteers conduct a patient visit at a VA hospital or medical facility, they go with our mission in mind. They bring comfort items, spread cheer, show compassion, and make a connection.

We want patients to feel loved, cared for, and appreciated. Most patient visits only last for about 5 to 10 minutes, but they make a lasting impression and have a powerful impact.

Heartfelt Patient Visits: Angels in Action

Some experiences transcend language. A patient visit is one of those times.  It is a deeply personal and meaningful exchange that cannot be described with mere words. It must be felt with the heart.

Nevertheless, our awesome volunteers attempt to help us understand what a patient visit is like. Their stories shine a light on the significance of these heartfelt interactions.

San Antonio: Smiles, Service and Support

San Antonio VA Representative Cathy Miller says Veterans are grateful for the companionship of a patient visit, however brief.

“Our visits boost morale. When Veterans are sick and stuck in a strange place, they are lonely and bored and would rather be anywhere else than in the hospital,” she said. “They are happy to see us, and they are grateful to receive the items we bring.”  

Cathy says she provides items like patriotic no-sew blankets, which are a favorite since it is typically cold in hospital rooms. She also passes out hygiene kits, Girl Scout cookies, puzzle books with pens, and other goodies.

“We want to provide something that will cheer up the patients and let them know we are grateful for their service,” she said. “The small measure of comfort we provide is important.”

According to Cathy, patient visits are a two-way street, benefiting both the Veteran and the volunteer.

“They are a win-win. It’s good for them and good for yourself,” she said. “When the visit is over, the Veteran feels comforted, and I feel good that I was able to provide that comfort.”

Ft. Lauderdale: A Few Moments with a Furry Friend

Volunteer Debbie Wellman and her therapy dog Aibo (which means “friend” in Japanese) have witnessed the powerful impact that presence can have on Veterans during patient visits. Together, they spend time with patients. Sometimes they don’t even talk.

“We will visit the chemo ward and Aibo will just sit with them or lay on the floor by them and that’s enough for them,” she said. “Aibo’s presence will help take their mind off what they are going through, even if it is for just a few moments.”  

Debbie says she has witnessed incredible healing moments between Aibo and Veterans being treated for various conditions.

She shared a time when she and Aibo visited a psychiatric unit. A Veteran came over and just sat with Aibo and talked to him for 15 minutes.

“A staff member shared that the man had not spoken with anyone since he was admitted and they had been trying to get him to talk for days,” she said. “They were amazed the impact Aibo had on him.”

Debbie says it makes her happy to take Aibo to visit Veterans because it makes the Veterans happy.

“Just to spend five minutes with them, I can see their stress go away and it is so worth it,” she said.

Check out this interview with Debbie and Aibo in our Tribute to Our Heroes video.

Sacramento: Moments of Motivation

VA Representative Chris Leonardini says patient visits are one of his favorite things to do as a volunteer in Sacramento.

“I get to go visit Veterans and talk with them and provide them emotional support,” he said. “It’s a privilege.”

Chris says the VA hospital is sometimes hours away from where patients live. Friends and family members simply cannot come and visit them due to logistical challenges.

“The Veterans really appreciate us taking time out of our day to visit them,” he said. “They are in the hospital for something they have been dealing with for months or even years. It’s difficult for them.”

Chris often feels that he gets more out of the visit than they do.

“I go to give them a morale boost, but I come away with a morale boost. I go to uplift Veterans, but I am uplifted by Veterans,” he said.

Chris tells of a time when he went to conduct a patient visit with a Veteran who was an athlete and coach. He gave him a motivational speech and a real boost of confidence.

“I left feeling more confident and encouraged,” Chris said. “It is awesome to get back as much as I give.”

The Lasting Impact of a Patient Visit

A patient visit is so much more than just a brief encounter between strangers.

These visits prove that presence is a powerful healer for both the Veteran and the volunteer.  Whether it’s a warm blanket, a listening ear, or even the silent companionship of a therapy dog, each interaction carries incredible significance.

Perhaps the most beautiful aspect of patient visits is that they aren’t just about giving—they’re about receiving too. Volunteers walk away with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the gratitude demonstrated by the Veterans they meet.

Interested in Becoming a Volunteer?

Did this article inspire you to become a volunteer so you can experience the power of a patient visit? We are always looking for new Angels to volunteer at VA hospitals.

Maybe you are looking for a different way to make a difference in the lives of Veterans or Service Members? Learn more about our in-person and virtual volunteering opportunities.  

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