At INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center Portland Avenue and the INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital, Sam Haque is quietly transforming moments of uncertainty into experiences of comfort, clarity and connection.
A retired engineer who emigrated from Bangladesh in 1980 after completing his education, Sam has built a life centered on service, family and community. He and his wife, Lisa Carol, are proud parents of two adult sons—both in the medical field—and grandparents to two grandchildren. In March 2023, Sam began a new chapter of service as a volunteer, continuing a lifelong commitment to helping others.
From Inspiration to Impact
Sam’s journey into hospital volunteering began during a routine visit for a shoulder X-ray at the Portland campus. While waiting, a chance encounter with a hospital volunteer sparked his interest. After learning how to get involved, he saw an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
That moment revealed something powerful: hospitals, while places of healing, can often feel overwhelming—especially for those in crisis. Inspired by this realization, Sam committed himself to becoming a steady, reassuring presence for others navigating those unfamiliar hallways. “Healing begins at the front door,” he shared. “I wanted to be part of that first moment—to ensure no one feels like just another case number.”
The Heart of Volunteering
For Sam, service goes far beyond completing tasks. “Volunteering isn’t just about giving my time; it’s about giving my presence,” he said. “It’s a reminder that while we cannot always cure, we can always care.”
Each week, Sam volunteers from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, serving at the main information desks at both INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center Portland Avenue and the INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital. His shifts are filled with meaningful interactions—greeting visitors, offering directions, escorting patients, assisting with wheelchairs, answering calls and most importantly, listening.
Moments That Matter
Some of Sam’s most impactful moments happen quietly. One experience stands out: a young woman, visibly shaken, approached the desk but couldn’t find the words to ask for help. Rather than pointing the way, Sam walked beside her to the Emergency Department, offering silent support when words weren’t enough.
“She told me, ‘I was so lost until you walked with me.’ That stayed with me,” he recalled.
Moments like this reflect a deeper truth: sometimes, the greatest impact comes not from solving problems, but from recognizing the person behind them.
Leadership and Service
In addition to his frontline role, Sam serves on the Volunteer Auxiliary Board as a committee member for the Portland campus. In this role, he provides updates on facility improvements and new medical equipment while collaborating with hospital leadership and staff. The opportunity to connect with experienced board members and various departments continues to deepen his engagement and broaden his perspective.
A Lasting Impact
Volunteering has shaped not only the lives of those Sam serves, but his own perspective as well. “I’ve developed a deep commitment to patient advocacy and human-centered service,” he said. “It’s about balancing efficiency with empathy—making sure everyone feels seen, heard and respected.”
He believes volunteers play a unique and vital role in health care environments.
“While doctors and nurses focus on saving lives, volunteers focus on honoring the life being saved.”
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For more information about volunteer opportunities at INTEGRIS Health visit integrishealth.org/volunteer or call 405-949-3183 to find the perfect opportunity for you.
