Susan Smith – Bullard Volunteer

I first came to know of CFFL through a friend with breast cancer who needed an encourager to keep her motivated to exercise; as research shows it is of great benefit to cancer patients. Needing to exercise myself, and wanting to help my friend, I readily agreed. What I found was a genuinely concerned staff of paid persons and volunteers all of whom made it a pleasure to be there. In addition, Dr. Kimmel responded to our desire for a facility at Bullard Southern Baptist Church with speed and great enthusiasm. Seeing his dedication to growing this program, while keeping it outstanding at the same time, has been a real inspiration to me.  Real needs are being met in the Bullard community, but because this is a free program to everyone, an all-paid staff is not financially feasible. Volunteers are needed to fill in the gap.

My desire when I retired from teaching was to in some way volunteer to work with the elderly. God led me to CFFL, which works with all age groups. Webster's defines volunteer as "a person who performs service willingly and without pay." But, the reason people volunteer is what makes the difference. I am able to use my spiritual gift to show loving concern for the well-being of others.  Patients appreciate those who genuinely care about them and their individual situation. They also need encouragement to continue to exercise which not only benefits them physically, but emotionally as well. Sometimes that is difficult, because they may not feel well.  But, a truly interested person can assist them in accomplishing their individualized program. Best of all, real friendships are developed, and who cannot use more friends?

The blessings I have received from volunteering for CFFL far outweigh the small amount of time given. Praise the Lord that he placed this vision in Dr. Kimmel's heart. CFFL is truly helping others at a time they really need it. Please join other volunteers in getting involved, and you will be blessed. Just volunteer!

Nick Rognlie – First Christian Church, Tyler and Bullard Volunteer and Participant

I am a lung cancer survivor of over 5 years.

When my cancer was diagnosed, I was in very good physical condition. Due to this, my doctors provided me with a very aggressive program of chemotherapy and radiation after a resection to remove some of the cancer cells. Once the treatments were completed, I was put on oxygen 24/7, for the remainder of my life.

During my cancer treatments I met Jill Dickerson, an oncology nurse, who was interested in starting a cancer support group and asked for my assistance. We have succeeded in that effort and continue to support the CanSurvivor Support Group at the Texas Oncology in Tyler. At one of the early meetings of the support group, Dr. Gary Kimmel gave a presentation on how exercise can vastly improve a patient’s deteriorated physical health as a result of the cancer treatments.

About a week later I was sitting in my home with oxygen tubing strung all over the house, up and down stairs, to provide access to the oxygen.

I called Dr. Kimmel, and on the same day, at about 5 p.m., he showed up at my home. He put together a progressive program without oxygen. He did not like the shoes I had been using, nor did he approve of the treadmill I was using. Both were soon replaced.

I kept up with the program although it was not void of “speed bumps.” About eight to nine months later, I was oxygen free. The exception is when I am on my treadmill at home or during some outdoor activities such as hiking in the mountains.

This is why I volunteer at CFFL. I find it enjoyable to help others who have been through similar experiences. I was very surprised that I was named the CFFL Volunteer of the Year of 2007. I continue to volunteer at First Christian Church in Tyler and at the Bullard Southern Baptist Church.

Dr. Herd Snider - First Christian Church, Tyler Volunteer

I have been a volunteer for 2 years, and it has been a rewarding experience. I have enjoyed seeing the participants improve both their physical and mental fitness. The atmosphere is friendly and we have a great time!