After keeping the financial matters of former Selma cabinet shop Pearson Woodworking in order, the retired bookkeeper turned volunteer Mildred Buchanan, wanted a change of pace.

Buchanan, who began volunteering for Vaughan Regional Medical Center in 2000, felt the opportunity would be a great way to interact with the public.

“My mother had just passed way … (and) I thought it’d be a good thing to help people, get me out of the house, meet people and see people,” Buchanan said. “I’ve met so many great people.”

Buchanan, who can be found helping inside the hospital’s gift shop, returned to the hospital in early February after taking time to rest from health issues.

“I help with unpacking and pricing items,” Buchanan said emphatically. “ I thoroughly enjoyed volunteering. I don’t participate as much as I would like to … I hope to get back into it pretty soon.”

In the past, Buchanan has traveled throughout the U.S. and the world with her husband of 62 years, Jim, also a 28-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

“We traveled to Okinawa (Japan), Germany, Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina … everywhere,” Buchanan said.

When her health allows, Buchanan said she also enjoys arts and crafts.

“I used to sew, did some crafts,” Buchanan said. “It’s limited now to what I can do (but), I’m beginning to get back into things. It’s coming together now.”

Buchanan’s heart remains with Vaughan.

“I’ve really enjoyed it,” Buchanan said as a smile surfaced. “It’s been a joy.”

The Buchanan’s have two sons, Mitchell and Gary, and eight grandchildren.