A few weeks ago I volunteered. Not having a local, needy Grandmother I thought volunteering with 'Carers Resource' would like me up with a frail old person who needed support with general household tasks and an occasional trip out shopping or for coffee. Instead I meet someone not much old than me who appears well apart from the walking stick.
Deceptive. A year ago B was in fulltime work, a volunteer with the local hospital and running cub and scout packs.
The symptoms were vague and diagnosis took a while. A fall, forgetfulness, half remembering (holding a potato peeler and potato and then not knowing what to do). A bloodtest and scan revealed a brain tumour, apparently not to be called 'cancer'. This was delightfully described as a butterfly tumour, meaning speading to both sides of the brain. A can nolonger stand for any length of time. The volunteers at the hospital thought it unprofessional to sit whilst helping so B resigned. Unable to negotiate steps and stair (B's brain can't tell her legs to lift her feet high enough) access to certain areas is nolonger possible.
Despite these limitations B seems determined to make the most of life. Between visits to the hospital for tests, scans and treatment there are more rewarding and enjoyable things to do. Over coffee we discussed the options. Volunteering at a charity shop was teh top of the list. Able to sort, rearrange stock and mend clothes would keep B happy.
Consequently, I'm voluteering for 2 organisations. Supporting B whilst she carries out her Oxfam shop work and working alongside her at Oxfam.
