April is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the incredible people who give their time, talents and hearts in service of others. Kay Munshower is a shining example of the generosity and heart that define Hoag’s volunteer community. For more than 30 years, Kay has been a steady presence at the hospital — a compassionate volunteer, a cheerful face in the hallways, and a gifted knitter whose handmade caps offer comfort to patients undergoing cancer treatment.  

Kay first came to Hoag in 1990, shortly after retiring from her career as a teacher in the Newport-Mesa School District. She became an active and dedicated member of the Hoag volunteer community, helping supporting staff, patients, and families with warmth and grace. 

These days, she continues to serve the community by knitting caps for patients at the Patty & George Hoag Cancer Center, where individuals receive treatments like chemotherapy, offering warmth and comfort during long hours of care. It’s a quiet act of compassion that has grown into a deeply meaningful tradition.  

“I began making caps for newborns on the mother-baby unit. Then I started knitting for the cancer center after my husband passed away from cancer,” Kay says. “It became my way of giving back — of staying connected.” 

Over the past decade, Kay has knitted more than 1,900 caps. She drops off a batch every couple of weeks, each one made with care and consideration for the time of year and the comfort of those who will wear them. “The nurses always tell me, ‘Your caps are so thoughtful — you choose the perfect yarn for the season.’ That means a lot to me.” 

Though she rarely meets the patients who receive them, Kay says she finds joy in the knowledge that her work provides a sense of warmth and comfort to those going through some of the most difficult days of their lives. 

“Volunteering gives me something to look forward to,” she says. “It keeps me going. And if someone else is thinking about getting involved, I would tell them: find something that fits you. There’s always a way to give back.” 

Kay has received recognition from Hoag leadership for her inspiring dedication but for her, the greatest reward is in simply continuing to show up — with kindness, consistency, and the quiet power of handmade care. 

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Kay Munshower

Interested in Volunteering at Hoag? 

The Hoag Hospital Adult Auxiliary is looking for friendly, cheerful and caring volunteers to assist patients and visitors at the Newport Beach, Irvine and Huntington Beach campuses. Volunteering at Hoag is a meaningful way to give back, stay active, and make a difference in the lives of others. 

As part of this community service, interview and skills assessments, orientation training, health screening, and a background check are required. 

To learn more, visit hoag.org/volunteer or call the Auxiliary Office at 949-764-8264. 

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