Lending a Helping Hand
Immigrating from the UK to Adelaide in 1999, Cedric and Amanda Meyer have been a blessing to the South Australian community, donating two days a week to volunteer at the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH).
Initiated in 1971, the RAH Volunteers offers nine different services to patients ranging from laundry and driving to palliative care. All of these services are provided completely free of charge to those without support whilst in hospital.
Amanda herself has spent over 11 years as a devoted volunteer, splitting her time between Intensive Care and the Oncology Units.
“In both intensive care and oncology, we get involved with the families, helping them cope and understand what is going on,” Amanda said.
“It’s really quite rewarding, especially being able to help people who really need the support, such as single parents.”
Cedric, who has a background in mechanical engineering, drives the scheduled shuttle bus between the RAH and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital on Tuesdays and on Wednesdays assists with administration jobs.
“I was initially a bit sceptical about becoming a volunteer, but then I realised the range of people who volunteer their time to provide these services – I fit right in,” he said.
“The appreciation we get from patients and the respect we get from the staff at the RAH – it’s very satisfying work,” he said.
“Just getting a smile from someone can make your day.”
With four grown up children and currently living in Morphett Vale, Cedric and Amanda spend their days not volunteering looking after one of their six grandchildren.
“We love being part of the RAH Volunteers and are excited to relocate to the new hospital,” Cedric said.
If you ever see one of the RAH Volunteers while at the hospital, please don’t hesitate to stop and ask them for a helping hand.
If you would like information about applying to be a volunteer, please contact RAH Volunteers Manager, Chris Iovino on 08 8222 4637 or chris.iovino@sa.gov.au.
