
Congratulations to Milford resident Fran Bandes, who has been selected as St. Vincent’s Medical Center Volunteer of the Year. For more than 13 years, Bandes has brought warmth, kindness and a natural gift for conversation to our Short Stay patients, helping ease their anxiety during uncertain moments.
Fran's journey to St. Vincent's began in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, where she raised her family and owned two successful flower shops. Even while running her businesses, Fran made time to volunteer in the Emergency Department at North York General Hospital, demonstrating her lifelong passion for helping others. After retiring at 63, she moved to the United States and immediately continued her commitment to service by joining St. Vincent's in April 2013.
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Fran's generosity extends beyond our hospital walls. She recently began volunteering at the Carriage House in Milford, sharing her compassion with even more members of our community.
Fran doesn't just give her time—she gives her heart. Our patients, staff, and hospital community are all better because of her dedication and kindness.