Giving something back

1 minute read time.

FormerMember

24 Sep 2010

Since I was told last week that I'm in remission, I've been thinking a lot about how I can give something back to the Christie Hospital.

I'm so grateful for the care I had [and continue to receive] there - and I've reached the conclusion that I am going to go part time at work so I can volunteer at the Christie.

I don't care what I do - make tea, carry files about, show patients and visitors where to go, help people fill forms in, clean toilets, anything.

I've had my calculator out, and worked out I can afford to do 4 days per week instead of 5, and on my "day off" I am going to go to the Christie and give my time to them.

I've talked to Andrew - my fiance - who is 100% supportive of my plan.

Of course, I'll have to wait a few months until I'm definitely out the "danger zone" myself, but as soon as I possibly can, I am going to volunteer.

So it's decided. I'm going to:
a) have an "off the record" chat with my boss at work and give him the heads up about my intentions, and
b) approach the Christie's volunteer co-ordinator person and offer my services.

I know I may have to wait a while until I'm accepted. I know they may not have any vacancies. And if this is the case, then my alternative promise is that I will donate the equivalent of 1 day's wages per week to the Christie until they will let me volunteer for them.

Jacqui x

FormerMember over 14 years ago

Wow - I am really moved by your comments - maybe a few more of us - including me ! - should take this as wake-up call. Most of us can do something - maybe not in financial way - but possibly help out in the charity shops - the charity is not too important - just the need to put something back into the community.

We all cry about how little care we see in the community and hark back to the good old days !! - the only difference then was we were all skint ! and had to help each other. Think this blog could lead better things. Thanks for the reminder !

Hugs

John xx
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KateG over 14 years ago

Well done and good luck! I've worked as a volunteer in many fields; driving patients to appointments, staffing a shop, and waiting on table at a day centre. The one thing that struck me was that the world of volunteers was as full of politics as the commercial sector and I was astonished at the amount of 'bitchiness' and back-biting. I found the 'one-on-one' volunteering was the most satisfying;. I was helping another person to some independence.

Good luck with finding your niche.

KateG
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FormerMember over 14 years ago

Hi Jacqui,

The best thing to volunteer is your experiences with the Cancer that you had and share it with the patients,its that type of support and advice they would really appreciate.

Take care and be safe Big Hugs Love Sarsfield.xxx
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FormerMember over 14 years ago

Hi Jacqui

Well done for such a thoughtful decision. I am sure the Christie will appreciate any time you can offer and there may well be loads of things that you can help with. I think it will also do lots of good for you and it will help you to feel useful which is always a good thing!

Keep us updated on how you get on

Kerry.x
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