Margaret - MND Connect Volunteer

Sometimes being there to listen is all that someone needs.

Margaret, MND Connect volunteer

I have been a MND Connect volunteer with the MND Association for the past eight years.
I work on the national MND Connect one half day a week in National Office and one evening every fortnight on the evening helpline.
I am a nurse and work in a unit caring for people with physical disabilities. I have cared for some people who have MND and seen the effect it has on the person with MND and their families.

Making a difference

I responded to an advert from the MND Association looking for Helpline volunteers.
I thought it would be an opportunity to try to help in some way people who are affected by this disease
Being an MND Connect volunteer I feel I make a difference to people affected by MND. It is good to know that I am supporting, giving information or listening to people and my contribution however small can be of help. Sometimes being there to listen is all that someone needs.
I feel very much part of the team not just a volunteer and have made new friends. I feel valued, supported and encouraged in my role.

Gaining new skills

I have also gained new skills. Whereas once I was a complete technophobe, afraid to even switch a computer on, I can now send emails, surf the web and use a range of programmes to support my work which speaks highly of the patience of my teachers.

A new perspective

Being involved with the MND Association has changed my perspective of both volunteers and those affected by MND. It has given me a greater insight into the difficulties faced on a daily basis by those affected and a greater appreciation of the help and support that the Association provides.