To mark International Volunteers Day on 5 December 2024, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust is highlighting the remarkable contributions of volunteers in the Macmillan Cancer Unit at the Ulster Hospital.
Margaret McCormack, who has dedicated three years to volunteering in the unit and Shirley Johnston, who has been lending her support for the past year and a half, play an invaluable role in providing comfort and care to patients during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives.
Their presence in the unit goes beyond practical assistance. They offer a listening ear, a kind smile and unwavering support to patients and their families facing the challenges of cancer treatment.
Reflecting on her volunteering experience, Margaret states, “I have been in the Macmillan Unit volunteering now every Tuesday for three years. I find it so rewarding and it gives me an opportunity to reach out to patients and their families at what can be a really stressful time for them. It can put a focus to your week, you get so much back.
“Very often I am talking to the carers and helping support them with any issues they may have, this gives me great satisfaction knowing that I have helped someone.
Margaret added, “Volunteering provides me with the opportunity to meet people and help lift their spirits. I get a lot out of it. Helping to pass on information to patients and their families, to guide them on their cancer journey, makes a real difference for me. It’s a lovely feeling.
“There are great opportunities for training and learning with courses available. Last year I completed safeguarding training. It’s an opportunity to update your knowledge and skills. At 76 years old, I’m still learning!
“When you volunteer, you get that feel good factor, it is so enjoyable!”
Shirley echoes this sentiment, sharing, “I have been working as a Volunteer every Friday since February 2023 between the Macmillan Cancer Unit and the Breast and Endocrine Centre in the Ulster Hospital. My background is in Nursing, through theatres and Marie Curie. I retired post-COVID and I always wanted to carry on my caring role on a voluntary basis.
“I was so glad to be able to volunteer in the Macmillan Unit and Karen Kelly has been great in supporting me in this role. I am able to help patients and their families by providing them with a listening ear, directing them to the information available in the Macmillan Information Centre and helping them with any questions they may have.
Shirley continues, “ I also offer patients and families a cup of tea and coffee which sometimes helps them open up if they want to talk about their cancer journey.
“I would really recommend volunteering, it really is an opportunity to give something back.”
Highlighting the important role Volunteers play in the Macmillan Unit, Macmillan Health and Well-being Co-ordinator, Karen Kelly said, “Margaret and Shirley are both amazing and we are so lucky to have them as part of the team here in the Unit. We really value what they do as part of their role to complement the services in the unit and they have built up some lovely relationships with patients over time. T
“Margaret and Shirley meet and greet patients and their families at what can be one of the most vulnerable times of their lives and the manner in which they do this is exceptional, they take their time with patients and are a trusted source of support.
Karen added, “They are not only a fantastic support for the patients and families here in the unit, they really help the staff too and they are so uplifting. It’s about working together to meet the needs of patients and their families.”
Volunteering Services Manager, Sonya Duffy commented, “Our volunteers in the Macmillan Cancer Unit provide invaluable support and comfort to patients and their families during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Their dedication, compassion and selflessness make a real difference every day and we are incredibly grateful for their continued commitment to this vital service.”
If you are inspired by Margaret and Shirley’s stories and would like to explore volunteering opportunities within the Trust, please visit https://setrust.hscni.net/getinvolved/volunteering/