The High Sheriff of West Yorkshire, Sue Baker, has recognised the contribution of three Hospice volunteers in a special ceremony at the Wheatfields Hospice on 14 February.
Pam Boyd, 76, Melvyn Sumroy, 80, and Ann Miller, 73 have a combined 48 years of supporting people in palliative care at the Headingley hospice.
Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice has been providing expert palliative care and support for people living with life-limiting conditions across Leeds, as well as supporting their families, for almost 45 years.
Pam, who lives in Wortley, was inspired to volunteer to give back for the compassionate care and support she and her husband received in 2007.
“People often say to me that it’s very good of me to volunteer, but I don’t feel like that as it’s a two-way thing and I think I get out of it as much, if not more, than I put in. I don’t do it for appreciation but it’s so lovely to have received this award.
Some people might not feel comfortable going back to the place where their loved one has died, but I don’t feel like that. In fact, when I was able to come back and start volunteering again after the coronavirus pandemic, walking through the door felt just like coming home.”
Melvyn, from Moortown, recently retired after 18 years of service as a volunteer driver. He says that the time has flown because of how much he enjoyed interacting with patients.
Melvyn: “Those 18 years really have not seemed like a long time to me. I gave up only one day of the week to pick up people needing Sue Ryder’s care and during that time you spend with them you do all you can to make them feel as comfortable as you can. Every day I volunteered at the hospice was a pleasure. I’ve met such wonderful people.”
Ann, who lives in Alwoodley, has spent the last 15 years supporting the Day Therapy unit, working directly with patients who attend the hospice for much-needed support, care and symptom management.
Ann “I just love helping people and trying to make their day better than they thought it was going to be. As a volunteer you meet different people all the time and you just feel that you’re doing something useful. I would highly recommend it to anyone.”
The High Sheriff’s Certificate of Commendation is awarded only to a small number of people and organisations.
The High Sheriff Sue Baker: “One of the main responsibilities I have in my role is to promote the welfare, wellbeing and prosperity of the county and all its people, and to support and encourage all those who give their time, skills and effort for the benefit of others. People who volunteer never expect to do it for thanks or recognition, but that’s why I’m so pleased to be able to present Pam, Melvyn and Ann with these well-deserved commendations.”
Paul Musgrave, Service Director at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice: “Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting the running of our services and are an essential part of everything we do. Their passion, dedication and skills help make it possible for us to be there when it matters for people going through the most difficult times of their lives.
“We are hugely grateful to Pam, Melvyn and Ann for their ongoing commitment to our hospice and it has been wonderful to see them recognised by the High Sheriff in this way.”
For further information on Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, and the services it provides, visit: sueryder.org/wheatfields
Cover photograph: The High Sheriff of West Yorkshire, Sue Baker, presented commendation certificates to volunteers Melvyn and Pam at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice. They were joined by Paul Musgrave, Service Director.
