The British Heart Foundation; Cancer Research, Bournemouth Reform Synagogue
The retired secretary, who worked in the jewellery and catering industries, has been volunteering for the British Heart Foundation for nearly 50 years, and for Cancer Research since 2006. The 77-year-old lives in Bournemouth
Why these charities?
All my life I have volunteered for various charities. However, in 1960 I had a heart operation at the Royal London Hospital. I immediately wanted to do all I could to help the British Heart Foundation and raised £60 for the charity at my first fundraiser. That was 48 years ago! Sadly, both my husband and my mother-in-law died of cancer and I now do whatever I can to assist Cancer Research. Both charities are important to me.
Have you volunteered elsewhere in the past?
When I lived in Luton I used to help with a mobile shop at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital.
What does your current volunteering role involve?
Apart from my duties as vice-president of Bournemouth Reform Synagogue, as well as being senior warden and guild chairman, I also run the Judaica shop at the synagogue. I spend a lot of time contacting people in our community who have not been seen for a few weeks. The synagogue and the welfare of the community is my life and as a “recycled teenager” of 77 years young I’m not doing too badly. I shall carry on until I’m made redundant!
What do you enjoy most about being a volunteer?
Helping and being with other people.
What is your most memorable volunteering moment?
All my volunteering moments are memorable, every one of them.
