Millicent Spencer
Volunteers at Northern Health are back for another year to assist patients in Epping, Broadmeadows, Bundoora, and Craigieburn.
The team of volunteers undertake a variety of roles at the hospitals including helping with behind the scenes administrative support, taking part in fundraising initiatives and bringing comfort through patient visiting.
Craigieburn local Michael Fedyshyn has been a volunteer with Northern Health for a decade.
Mr Fedyshyn said he is looking forward to getting back to doing what he loves most – working closely with stroke patients at the Broadmeadows Hospital.
“I had a stroke in 2004 and I find sharing my story with other people who have experienced the same thing very rewarding. They can relate to what I’ve gone through and I help them to see that there is light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Mr Fedyshyn migrated with his family from Poland as a young boy in 1963 and uses his bilingual skills to help those in the community who need assistance with accessing services.
“I’m excited to continue doing what I’m passionate about this year, and that’s connecting with my community,“ he said.
“I find it really rewarding to work with the interpreters and make sure everyone who visits Northern Health can find their appointment, or loved one they’re visiting in hospital.“
Northern Health’s manager of volunteer services Henni Wade said the coordination team is excited to begin welcoming volunteers back after their break over the festive season.
“The volunteers are a valuable part of how we operate and they’re appreciated by each and every department they go to,” she said.
“They’re giving back to their local health service and that’s very important to them.
“Knowing they’re contributing in a meaningful way is one of the main reasons our volunteers say they continue coming back, year after year, and giving us their time.”
Northern Health is currently recruiting a range of volunteers. Those interested in applying should contact the Volunteer Services Team on (03) 8405 8971 or via email: volunteer@nh.org.au.
