‘Sole’ Music: Retired Pediatrician Harmonizes Foot Care and Friendship

If you hear the sounds of Motown echoing through the halls of St. Francis Seraph Ministries, feel free to sing along. You’ll be in good company with the Foot Care for the Souls team and the guests they serve every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.

One of the voices you’ll hear harmonizing is that of Dr. Ernest Ciambarella, affectionately known as “Dr. C.” The music of Motown takes him back to his youth. The foot care ministry takes him back to his professional passion for service.

After retiring from his pediatric practice a few years ago, Dr. C was looking for volunteer opportunities. Feet weren’t his expertise — “I can take care of diaper rashes,” he says with a laugh — but Nurse Practitioner Beverly Clayton, who leads the foot care program, quickly brought him up to speed.

“It’s a great outlet for continuing to use my skills and to learn,” Dr. C says. “You get immediate satisfaction from our clients and patients. You can just take care of problems right now, fix people up, give them new socks and shoes. It makes a huge difference to a lot of people.”

The foot care team trims toenails, files down calluses, and treats conditions like ingrown nails, skin breakdown, and fungus. Each guest receives a new pair of socks, and once a year, the program also distributes new shoes or boots.

Just as important as the physical support are the camaraderie and friendship guests build with the volunteers. Sometimes, they might be singing along with Smokey Robinson or the Temptations. Other times, they simply enjoy the chance to chat with a good listener.

“They’re no different than the patients I took care of when I was in practice,” Dr. C says. “I’ve learned their stories. Some of them literally do live on the street. Some are passing through and they’ve heard about us. Maybe they’re on their way someplace for a job or to reunite with family. Everybody’s story is different, but nobody is on the streets by choice.”

Dr. C is quick to point out that you don’t have to be a physician to make a difference through Foot Care for the Souls. All the volunteers get along well and help one another learn. There are lots of different jobs to be done, like stocking supplies, preparing the foot care solutions, or helping fellow volunteer Joe Zielinski distribute socks and shoes.

“Everybody loves him, and he’s so cheerful,” Dr. C says. “It’s such a great atmosphere.”

Would you like to make beautiful music alongside Dr. C and the rest of the foot care team?

Email Volunteer Service Director Susan Walsh or call 513-549-0542, ext. 284, to learn how you can help.