When Linda Kersh retired from her busy career in the health industry she knew she decided to give some of her new found free time to volunteering. So after a lifetime of working as a nurse at both Lodge Moor Hospital and the Northern General Hospital she embarked on a new life as a volunteer assistant at our Ecclesall Road shop, then joining our Community Patient Support team working with our Community Nurses to ensure that patients maintain their independence as long as possible.
“To my way of thinking, it’s often simply about bringing a bit of cheer into people’s lives, sharing a cup of coffee with them, listening to them and finding out if they need anything,” Linda explains.
“The really nice thing is that it is a two-way process – the patient may gain a lot but I really do think I get a lot back in return.
“With my first person, she would chat with me, she made a lovely cup of coffee and she talked about her life, which is fascinating because people do lead such interesting lives and it’s a privilege to be sharing those stories with them.
“I have had cancer twice myself – both breast cancer and bowel cancer – so I do know how somebody in this position is feeling but I always try to encourage people to appreciate that they should be living for now and not for tomorrow.
“I think everybody who is first diagnosed with cancer thinks that’s it, that they’re going to die but I am a very positive person and I hope I can share some of that.”
To prepare for her new role Linda underwent a seven-week training programme before starting her first series of visits.
Each patient is given a 12-week series of visits, with the volunteer not only listening but also providing an important link with the St Luke’s Community Nursing team.
“After every visit I will contact the Community Nurse, highlighting any problems the patient may have – though I do have to emphasise that this is very much a support role and has nothing at all to do with my medical background.
“The training is fabulous, you learn new skills and anybody who decides to take part really will get a lot out of it.
“You’ll get so much out of being a member of the Community Patient Support team – and it won’t take up just too much of your time.
For further information on how to get involved in the Community Patient Support team call 0114 235 7542 or email Joy.