This National Volunteering Week we’re celebrating the many ways that people can get involved with Breast Cancer Care.
This National Volunteering Week we’re celebrating the many ways that people can get involved with Breast Cancer Care. As a Moving Forward volunteer, Karen helps deliver Breast Cancer Care’s courses for people facing life after treatment.
Why did you choose to volunteer for Breast Cancer Care?
After my own personal diagnosis of breast cancer, I felt I wanted to give something back and make a difference to women going through a similar journey that I had experienced. I was aware of Breast Cancer Care’s work and was keen to be a part of the organisation as soon as an opportunity arose.
Tell us about your role
As a Moving Forward volunteer, I help deliver the Moving Forward courses, which help women approach life after breast cancer treatment with confidence. Moving Forward is aimed at people who have finished, or are about to finish, their hospital-based treatment for breast cancer.
I start the day meeting the lovely Gill (the Moving Forward facilitator) and the guest speaker at the venue. I then prepare the information booklets on the publications table and set out the seating area and refreshments before the clients arrive.
As each person arrives, I greet them and update the register, and let them know that I am there to have a quick chat or provide a listening ear. I then make myself part of the group and provide support to the incredibly brave ladies on the course if it is needed.
What’s been your most memorable moment while volunteering?
Seeing someone in the first week of the course struggling emotionally with their journey, then at the end of the final week seeing the same person leave the room a much more confident and positive person – that’s a highlight.
What would you say to someone who told you they were considering volunteer?
I would definitely say give it a try, as I enjoy every minute I’m volunteering. Just giving a small amount of your time can make all the difference to someone who is in need.
What impact has it had on you?
It feel’s great to be part of such a worthwhile charity, and I am proud to be a Breast Cancer Care volunteer. If I can make a difference to just one more person who is struggling, then my time and efforts have been worth it.
The work that we do would not be possible without our volunteers. Do something amazing and make today the day you volunteer – donating your time and talent could make all the difference.
Make a difference with your time
Join our team of dedicated volunteers like Karen and help transform lives after breast cancer. Learn more about our volunteering opportunities and see how your contribution can support those moving forward from treatment.