Meet our volunteers: Hello my name is… Gina

Posted 22nd September 2020

Get to know Gina

Q. Introduce yourself…

A. #Hellomynameis… Gina and I’m an artist in Liverpool. I also facilitate art sessions with primary school children in North Liverpool and adults with learning disabilities.

As a volunteer, you’ll mostly find me within the Radiotherapy reception area on Level M3 where I’ll be signposting patients to their appointment locations, chatting with people waiting and making cups of tea and coffee.

Q. Why did you choose to volunteer at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool?

A. My Mum was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and has been attending Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Wirral since this time for treatment. The care she has received has been exceptional - kind, transparent and compassionate. So, when I saw that there was an opportunity to volunteer at the new hospital here in Liverpool, I jumped at the chance.

Q. How do you think your role as a volunteer will contribute to improving patient care?

A. Dealing with and living with cancer can be a life-changing and challenging experience. As a volunteer, I aim to be a friendly advocate to support anyone visiting the hospital with compassion and empathy. Given the ongoing visitor restrictions currently in place, even a few friendly exchanges, kind and sympathetic words can make a difference to those visiting on their own for diagnosis or treatment.

Q. What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

A. To actively listen - to generously give someone your full attention is one of the most compassionate acts.

Q. If you were stranded on a desert island what three things would you have to have with you?

A. A knife (for cutting down fruits and vegetables); a radio; a bell tent.

Q. What would your colleagues be surprised to discover about you?

A. I used to be a chef.

Did you enjoy meeting Gina? Well, we have lots of other volunteers you can meet, like Rudy and Rachael.