Michele Bismuth volunteers on the 8th floor of the oncology department at the Jewish General Hospital. Her exceptional dedication extends to gynecology oncology and pulmonary oncology whenever needed.
Asked to describe her typical day, Michele simply says, “My typical day is a happy day.”
Michele’s greatest gift is her ability to connect with patients, no matter how brief their time together.
“Being present with the patients is the most important and rewarding part of my work,” she explains.
While her duties include practical tasks like distributing blankets, towels, and lunches, she considers emotional support her true calling.
Her day begins with small comforts: distributing fresh towels and blankets to patients receiving chemotherapy. For those feeling cold, she retrieves warm blankets from the microwave to provide a warm cocoon of comfort.
During her rounds, she introduces herself to new patients as a Hope & Cope volunteer, sharing information about the organization’s services and its inspiring founder, Sheila Kussner, z”l, O.C., O.Q., C.O.M..
Michele explains how the idea of Hope & Cope grew out ot Sheila’s own experience with cancer, and often shares Sheila’s mother’s wisdom: “You can make it bitter or you can make it better.”
“I truly enjoy my work,” Michele says.
Her approach deeply intuitive and empathetic.
She begins conversations gently, asking patients, “How did your week go?” while carefully observing which patients welcome conversation and which prefer privacy.
“It all depends on the patient. I don’t want them to feel like I’m invading their privacy,” she explains.
To patients who welcome interaction or need an emotional boost, she offers a hug and a listening ear.
These interactions can be profoundly touching, like when a young patient who had lost her hair during chemotherapy asked Michele to take a photo with her.
Michele loves to bring humour to her rounds.
“While distributing sandwiches and juices at lunchtime, I joke that I’m a stewardess on an airplane,” she says. “People appreciate a bit of humour.”
As a cancer survivor herself, Michele shares her own experience with chemotherapy when appropriate. By revealing her journey, she demonstrates how positivity and finding joy in everyday moments helped her through difficult times.
Creating emotional connections comes naturally to Michele. Sometimes, she explains, a bond forms with a patient that transcends words—existing in the realm of intuition and compassionate presence.
“It takes a lot of very real caring,” she reflects.
Michele maintains a careful balance between offering emotional support and protecting her own well-being. She has learned to leave the day’s emotional weight behind when she goes home.
The gratitude that patients express is Michele’s greatest reward. Their appreciation often brings tears to her eyes, and being blessed for her caring touches her deeply.
Michele feels the 8th floor has been the perfect match for her empathetic personality. It’s a place where her natural compassion transforms difficult days into moments of connection and comfort.
“It’s very touching,” she says, “and I’m grateful to support patients and assist the nursing staff.”
Inspired by this story? Hope & Cope volunteers make a real difference in the lives of people with cancer and their families.
Whether you have a few hours a week or want to support our mission through a donation, there are many ways to get involved.
To become a Hope & Cope volunteer:
Visit hopeandcope.ca/volunteer-application-form-2.
To support Hope & Cope with a donation:
Visit hopeandcope.ca/donate.
Where we gather to honour people living with cancer, support one another, and celebrate every milestone.
The holiday season upon is upon us, and our staff is taking some well-earned time off.
The Wellness Centre will be closed from December 22, 2025, to January 2, 2026.
Our office on E7 at the JGH will be closed from December 24, 2025, to January 2, 2026.
We look forward to welcoming you back when we reopen on January 5, 2026.
If you need immediate support during this time, please contact your healthcare team or visit your nearest emergency department.
Wishing you and your loved ones peaceful holidays.
We’ll send you news and informations about us and our partners, but you will not be harassed.
