By DEBRA DUNLAP

There are many heroes in the health care industry, especially in our hospitals. There are paramedics who arrive in minutes, assess and administer emergency treatment.

Other heroes are the nurses who care for patients day and night, then the doctors who diagnose, treat and perform life-saving surgeries. Not to mention all those who keep the hospital running smooth.

Then you have the volunteer “auxiliary ladies,” also called “pink ladies,” who donate their time to bring you water, juice, companionship, a hug and a smile. They might provide an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on and share a laugh.

Spending time with the hospital auxiliary volunteers in both Bowie and Nocona Hospitals proved to be both delightful and educational. These very special people are dedicated to serving the patients and helping fund improvements for their hospitals. Read the full feature on these special volunteers in your Saturday News. Top picture: Gail White (left) and Peggy Heugatter, both long time auxiliary members prepare for their shift at the hospital. (Photo by Debra Dunlap)

Nocona Hospital Auxiliary President Karen Russell prepares to work. (Photo by Debra Dunlap)