Volunteer Story - Helen McPherson

My story starts in 2005 when I had been helping friends who were already on the Hospice fundraising committee with decorating the Bay Hall for the popular Hospice Balls, House and Garden Walks and more.

I became very unwell with a spinal abscess and it took a few weeks to get a diagnosis and treatment. I overcame this but left me pondering the what ifs. It made me re-evaluate my life and what was important to me.

Giving back to community was one of those hence, in 2006 I joined the Hospice Fundraising Committee. The people on this committee are passionate, caring, fun to be around and totally driven to raise money for this amazing facility. I also volunteer in the two Hospice shops which is fun, love interacting with the customers.

You can also find me cooking breakfast in the Hospice kitchen for the patients once a month and filling in where required. I love the interaction with the patients and the staff and have a lot of fun.

All these roles are integral part of raising money to keep the Hospice care facility operating and free to our South Canterbury community. Volunteering I find is very rewarding and gives me a sense of community.