A great-gran whose 20-plus years of volunteering at Royal Preston Hospital was halted by Covid-19 is hoping to get back to the role as soon as possible.
Kathleen Wallace, who is 78 and has two sons, two daughters and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren, has lived in Preston all her life.
For the past 23 years, Kathleen has spent an hour a day at RPH in the rehabilitation department, making hot drinks and chatting to patients.
Kathleen, who lives in Broadgate, said: “Doing this work through Lancashire Volunteer Partnership gets me out of the house and keeps me active.
“I enjoy visiting the staff for a chat as well as meeting the patients and often seeing people who I know. I’ve made lots of friends during my time there.”
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Unfortunately it was decided for Kathleen’s own safety that she wouldn’t be able to continue her visits during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I miss going but like many others I have to keep safe.
“I’ve got a Yorkie called Frankie who I enjoying taking out for little walks each day.”
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Kathleen’s daughter, Yvonne Derbyshire, said: “Mum is hoping to go back to the rehab department to carry on with her voluntary work as soon as she is allowed.
“It’s such a lovely, kind-hearted thing to do. The family is so proud of her.”
Proud Preston. This, and many stories like it, show how the people of Preston are making a difference. Our Proud Preston section showcases all the charitable, kind, uplifting and great things about our city and the people who live here. #ProudPreston is alive and well, and thereās much to celebrate and be proud of, despite the challenging times we all face.
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What do you think of Kathleen volunteering for all these years? Let us know in the comments.