Meet Our Volunteers: Hello, my name is... Steph
Posted 26th February 2021
Get to know Steph
Q. Introduce yourself…
A. #Hellomynameis… Steph! I’m a wife and mother, who has recently become a new ‘mum’ to an adorable ginger kitten, Jaffa Benitez! I volunteer at the new Clatterbridge Cancer Centre - Liverpool on Thursdays and can usually be found on the chemotherapy wards.
Q. Why did you choose to volunteer at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool?
A. I was keen to find a role to enjoy in my spare time, with my last voluntary position having been wound up due to COVID-19. Clatterbridge was suggested to me as they were recruiting for volunteers despite lockdown. Once I looked into it, I was very excited at the prospect of being part of a world-renowned hospital, inside a fancy new building too!
I’ve proudly been wearing my volunteer t-shirt ever since I attended the initial orientation and introduction session at the new hospital. We are so privileged to have this facility in our fabulous city.
Q. How do you think your role as a volunteer will contribute to improving patient care?
A. Now more than ever, I think volunteers can really contribute to improving patient care and their experiences. From walking in through the entrance to navigating the departments and floors, we are the (masked) face ready to welcome and help everyone.
I spend most of my time on the wards. I’m always busy providing drinks, snacks and lunches for patients. I can have a natter and a chuckle with them, breaking up the time they spend having treatment and helping to keep them company.
Due to COVID-19, some people may feel anxious about coming in for treatment, so it’s great to know that volunteering on the wards and chatting to patients can help to improve their experience.
It’s really rewarding and I can honestly say I love it. The patients and staff are like friends and it’s certainly the highlight of my lockdown week!
Q. What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
A. My dad claims he was given this sage advice from his dad, which he then passed down to me... don’t eat anything bigger than your head!
Q. If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
A. Firstly, my radio – I just love singing along, so much so I would probably be heard from miles away, so it could also help to aid my rescue! Next would have to be my Jigsaws… I can spend days doing the super hard ones!
My third item, high factor sun cream, is a practical choice if the desert island is located somewhere hot and sunny. I have vitiligo, so my white patches are prone to burning. Additionally, my neck would need extra protection if I was bending over all my jigsaws!
Did you enjoy meeting Steph? Well, we have lots of other volunteers you can meet, like Connie and Phil.
