Volunteer: Dr. Terry Nelson

Mission Work Inspired Service at Home

By Bill Krasean, Senior Services, RSVP Advisory Council Volunteer

While Dr. Terry Nelson had his orthopedic surgery practice in Kalamazoo, he made some 10 medical mission trips to Honduras as part of the Luke Society. “When I was there, I saw fi rst-hand the terrible conditions people faced in Third World countries,” said Terry, 71. “There’s not a lot an individual can do for them, but there are things you can do for your own community.” That I mind, when Terry retired, he joined RSVP (now called AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP), a national service program of Senior Services of Southwest Michigan that connects older adult volunteers with area organizations. He focused on the Meals on Wheels program, serving as a “hopper” who takes meals to clients. Once the pandemic hit, he took time away from Meals on Wheels but planned to return once conditions improved. A native of Kankakee, Ill., Terry has a medical degree from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine and completed an internship and residency in orthopedic surgery in Kalamazoo. After a one-year fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania, he and his wife, Gail, returned to Kalamazoo where he practiced for 30 years. Over the years he founded a sports medicine clinic and after he retired from his private practice, he became director of the Sports Medicine Clinic at Bronson Methodist Hospital. During the 30 years in practice, he also worked with athletic teams at Western Michigan University. His volunteer missions in Honduras served as an inspiration for volunteer work in the community. “When I retired, I didn’t want to sit around,” he said. His experience with Meals on Wheels was a bit of an eye-opener, he said. “There is a large amount of poverty in this affl uent city,” he said. “I volunteer because I can. I have the resources and fi nancial stability so I can support the underserved community.” Terry said he continues to be inspired by others he has known, including fellow retired orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mark Veenstra, who introduced him to missions to Honduras through the Luke Society, which Veenstra was a principal organizer. They have continued their friendship on the golf course. Senior Services of Southwest Michigan is an AmeriCorps Seniors grantee. AmeriCorps Seniors empowers people age 55 and older to serve their communities. RSVP helps people fi nd a volunteer opportunity that fi ts their passion. There are currently opportunities in Kalamazoo County and a few in Calhoun County. Volunteers are needed with Meals on Wheels, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, Telephone Reassurance for Seniors, Senior Services Home Repair, and more. Regular, fl exible schedules available. Contact RSVP at 269-382-0515 or apply to volunteer at www.seniorservices1.org.