Sunshine Hospital needs new volunteers for its meal assistance program, and hopes to double the numbers of hands on deck.
Currently the hospital has 20 volunteers a week coming in to help patients with their lunchtime meals.
Volunteer co-ordinator Kerry Shanahan said she is hoping to significantly boost numbers.
“It’s basically making sure patients are ready for their meals, helping them with opening packets or cutting food, if the patient can’t … generally offering a friendly face,” Ms Shanahan said.
Liz Mallia knows that volunteers make a profound difference to patients and how they cope.
“I do a few hours over lunchtime on the cancer ward, and getting to know patients is the best part,” Ms Mallia said. “It’s not just helping them with their meals – it’s giving them a friendly face at a tough time.
“Some are pretty miserable, some know they are going to pass away, others are very optimistic. But helping them and having a laugh and seeing their faces change to a smile is very rewarding.”
Ms Mallia urged anyone with the time to consider helping out.
“Just do it,’ she said. “If you have time, then come down – you get to make someone else happy, which is great.”
Call 8395 9091 or email kerry.shanahan@wh.org.au
