I have been a night owl for most of my life but I can be awake and ready to go out the door as quick as a flash.
You're here at the Donation Station on Mondays,Wednesdaysand Fridays- and then in ICU on Thursdays. What fun things do you do on your day off?I pretty much just chill, rest up or tidy up around my home. I live a fairly quiet life. I'm looking forward to getting into my garden because I love flowering plants.
Three words your friends would use to describe you?Generous, genuine, outgoing.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?I would like to go to Germany and check out where both my parents came from. Also surrounding countries.
I had the opportunity to travel and work around our own amazing country Australia for 3 years and nine months.
I got to see just a little of Japan in 2017.
What inspired you to start volunteering?I have always enjoyed being able to assist when and where I can. I am a people-orientated person.
What do you enjoy most about your days at the Donation Station?There are many things I enjoy, but one of the best parts is seeing how surprised and appreciative our visitors are when we explain that they don’t need to pay for the items — they’re free thanks to generous donations.
We love hearing feedback that something someone received has been appreciated, enjoyed or brought comfort.
Is there a moment from your time volunteering that has really stayed with you?Gosh, there’s sure to be a few but mostly it is the continuing love, support and care I receive from the entire management teams on a daily.
At one point, I was experiencing severe debilitating feelings of becoming overwhelmed and unable to do much of anything. Thanks to the team I took advantage of the free Employee Counselling. I feel very appreciated and cared for.
You've faced some big personal challenges. Has that shaped how you connect with patients and families here?Yes I am a survivor of multiple cancer battles.
Occasionally visitors to the Donation Station come in and they are dealing with their own or a close family member’s personal challenges going through treatments.
My heart goes out to them and reminds me just how grateful I am that I came through everything as well as I did and continue to.
I am not shy to touch or hug ones who need it. I will ask for their permission first as I respect some need their personal space.
Favourite spot in Canberra? (café/park/or monument)I got to visit the National Zoo a long time ago but I tend to rely on friends inviting me to places to go.
I’ve been to the National Art Gallery when my eldest granddaughter visited from Victoria before moving to the Gold Coast in QLD. I found it very interesting.
We have a feeling we already know the answer - but if you could choose any animal as the Donation Station mascot, what would it be?Ahh yes, my affection for hippopotamus. I was asked by the girls in the Donation Station if I had a favourite animal and the hippo came to mind.
I actually love most animals. It's like asking me what is my favourite colour — I love many shades.
What keeps you coming back week after week to give your time?I absolutely thrive and love every part of spending my days contributing and helping out.
If I was at home left to my own devices my mental health would spiral.
When I am volunteering I have purpose, I am productive and I know my services and presence are very much appreciated.
It really is my happy place and space.
What would you say to someone who's thinking about volunteering but hasn't quite taken the leap yet?It's a most worthy and personally rewarding way to make use of any free time.
People appreciate our services and express their gratitude freely, especially in the ICU during my shifts.
You become part of a valued group of beautiful human beings.
