Janette's story

Janette lost her best friend, Sue, to breast cancer six years ago. Sue was a mum to young twin boys when she was first diagnosed at the age of 41. After a gruelling treatment programme, she was finally given the all clear and able to piece her life back together again and start living once more.

Unfortunately the cancer returned a few years later as secondary cancer and once again she went back to another punishing treatment plan. Janette adds: “She was the strongest person I’ve ever met and never wallowed in self-pity. Each day was a new day and a positive one to get better.

“The cancer became incurable and as her health deteriorated we turned to Thames Hospice for support. Sue’s situation was unique in the fact she stayed at the Hospice for three months until she very sadly passed away at the age of 51.

“At the Hospice, Sue felt she was part of a big family that offered support and care not only to her but to her sons, family and best friend.”

Before Sue passed away, she asked Janette to give something back to the Hospice as a thank you on her behalf. Janette never forgot her promise to her friend and a couple of years later, she approached Thames Hospice as a volunteer.

Janette didn’t mind what role she was given as it was more about thanking and supporting the Hospice. She volunteers at the Home Store, serving at the tills, sorting, pricing and freeing up time for the staff to do other things. She adds: “Staff are very caring, appreciative and incredibly grateful for any time you can give. I know I am a small part of the Hospice but I am made to feel that I am an essential part of running the shop.  All the volunteers have differing abilities but the staff train and support you. Their patience is no-ending, nothing is too much trouble and there is no pressure to do anything you don’t want to do. They are also completely flexible with your time and work around your availability.”

Janette committed to one year of giving back as a thank you from Sue but the year has passed and Janette continues to volunteer for herself now. She loves the team she works with, the customers that come in and the fact she is helping to raise money for such a great cause. She enjoys the social side of volunteering, has made new friends and is happy chatting away to customers.

Janette concludes: “After a day volunteering, however small my contribution is, I feel I have done some good and made a difference. I love volunteering here, and more people should know how rewarding it is. If you have the time, volunteer for Thames Hospice, it just gives you a warm glow inside.”