Chuck and his wife Sophia have, together donated 21 years of volunteering to Hospice North Shore.
On 2 August this year, Chuck was recognised for 10 years’ service in Hospice North Shore’s Staff and Volunteer Long Service Awards. Sophia was presented with the same award in 2015.
“Working for Hospice North Shore, I feel my participation is meaningful,” Chuck says, “It’s like every single cog plays an important role to maximise the function of the whole machine.”
Chuck joined Hospice North Shore as a volunteer with his wife Sophia‘s encouragement in 2006; a year after Sophia joined.
He tells us that, during his volunteering at Hospice North Shore, he has had many opportunities to offer support to patients and their families. One of his most memorable experiences was with a man who had a terminal illness. His wife was his main carer, their children were overseas, and the couple spoke little English and were unable to drive. This caused a lot of challenges in their everyday life.
This man and his wife received specialised care and support after Hospice North Shore’s medical staff and Family Support Team entered their lives. The sense of relief was especially strong for the patient’s wife: she no longer felt that she was alone and helpless and became better able to face each day. Hospice offered medical support to the patient and practical and emotional support to the couple. This improved their quality of life and gave them greater confidence and courage to manage their daily challenges.
“I feel honoured to be a part of this great organisation”, says Chuck.
Chuck and Sophia immigrated to New Zealand from Taiwan 19 years ago and Hospice are so grateful for their generosity.
August 2016
For more information, please contact Volunteer Services by e-mail or on 09 485 3536.
