Gentle Ben: A Volunteer Story
August 17, 2010 | By: Volunteer Department
When Ben Tiptonford’s grandfather lost his sight, Ben played the guitar for him during family visits. That time together brought them very close and made Ben realize how comforting music can be for someone in a difficult situation.
A year after his grandfather died, Ben was driving behind a Hospice of the Comforter equipment truck and was reminded of those special times. Ben called the phone number on the truck and said he would be interested in volunteering; less than a week later Ben was in volunteer orientation and training. That was in 2009, and since then Ben has been sharing his gift of music with Hospice of the Comforter patients.
Ben has always been passionate about music and has learned how emotionally powerful it can be in a way that words alone cannot.
Recently, Ben was visiting a Hospice of the Comforter patient at an assisted living facility. As he began playing she began to weep. Concerned, Ben asked her what was wrong. She replied that she was crying because the music was so beautiful.
Ben has played guitar for 11 years but decided to make it his profession five years ago. He studies music full-time and teaches guitar.
Ben loves being able to create something new and discover new things each day. Part of that creation and discovery is the enrichment of the lives of Hospice of the Comforter patients.