Volunteer stories

Two minutes with … Dee & Jon

Jon and Dee are husband and wife and both volunteer at Katharine House, supporting the hospice in a variety of ways. Here they tell us a little about their different roles and why being part of the hospice community means so much to them.

What are your volunteering roles at Katharine House and what do they involve?

Dee:I volunteer as a Ward Receptionist on the Inpatient Unit, welcoming patients and visitors and helping the ward run smoothly. I am also part of the Fundraising Group.
Jon: I am a Volunteer Patient Driver, transporting patients to and from the Living Well service at the hospice and helping them get to hospital appointments when needed. I am also a member of the Fundraising Group, where we support events that raise vital funds for the hospice.

When did you first start volunteering?

Dee: About nine months ago.
Jon: Just over six months ago. I joined after Dee told me all about it.

How often do you volunteer?

Dee: I usually do one ward shift a week and attend fundraising meetings and events when I can.
Jon: It varies, but generally once or twice a week.

What made you decide to volunteer for the hospice?

Dee: As a retired nurse I have always had great respect for hospice care. When we moved to the area, I was delighted to find out about the volunteering opportunities at Katharine House, especially being able to help on the ward.
Jon: When Dee started volunteering, she told me about the amazing work here and the need for more volunteers. I decided to get involved too.

How did you find out about volunteering for Katharine House?

Dee: I found it through the website.
Jon: Through Dee, as she was already volunteering here.

What’s the best thing about volunteering?

Dee: Supporting such a valuable and special place in our community.
Jon: Being part of something so worthwhile and meeting such great people.

What has been your highlight and why?

Dee: Every day is rewarding in different ways. Being able to spend time chatting with patients and their visitors is always special and even the smallest thing can make a big difference. Fundraising events are a highlight too because every penny raised really matters.
Jon: It is hard to pick one, but the Bloxham Steam Rally stands out. Hearing so many positive comments from the public about Katharine House was really heartening.

What have you learned since becoming volunteers?

Dee: Volunteering is so different from working. I have time for the little extras that matter so much, without the responsibility.
Jon: I have learned that Katharine House is a place of positivity and often humour for patients, their families and staff.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

Dee: It is hugely rewarding and fits perfectly around my life. I meet lovely people and feel part of the community. It’s a two-way win!
Jon: Being able to do something positive, however small. I think I gain more than I give.

Why is volunteering important?

Dee: It provides a sense of purpose while making a positive impact. Being part of a team is very satisfying and boosts your self-worth.
Jon: It frees up staff to provide care, raises money to help fill funding gaps and supports people at their most vulnerable. It gives us all a stake in the wellbeing of our community.

How does it feel to volunteer for the hospice?

Dee: I feel very lucky. The standard of care is so high and is delivered by a dedicated multidisciplinary team. Fundraising is vital to ensure that continues.
Jon: A great privilege.

What makes Katharine House so special?

Dee: The excellent care for patients and families, the beautiful building and gardens, the calm and often happy atmosphere, and the wonderful food. Individual needs are always met.
Jon: Fundamentally, the extraordinary care it gives to patients and their loved ones.

Now for some quick-fire questions …

If I could go anywhere in the world, I’d go to …
Dee: I think I am so incredibly lucky that I have been to so many amazing places in the world. I do quite fancy Iceland though.
Jon: Istanbul.

My favourite dessert is …
Dee: Probably cheesecake.
Jon: Any kind of fruit crumble with custard.

If I won the lottery, I would …
Dee: I would share with our children and those close to us. Give to charity and pay for the rest of the renovation work on our house.
Jon: Probably a really nice electric car.

My idea of a perfect day is …
Dee: Spending the day enjoying my hobbies or a day out locally sightseeing.
Jon: A summer’s day in the garden with my family.

The best advice I’ve ever been given is …
Dee: Your values are shown through your actions not just your words.
Jon: Someone who doesn’t make mistakes never makes anything.

My proudest moment was …
Dee: More than one! Qualifying as a Registered Nurse at one of the best hospitals in the country (St Bartholomew’s in London). Also proud of our children and grandchildren.
Jon: Our children being born (sorry I needed three moments).

My favourite way to unwind is …
Dee: To spend time creating leaded or fused stained glass, which is a big hobby.
Jon: A long walk.

If I was stranded on a desert island, I would want …
Dee: Obviously a boat!
Jon: A wind-up radio.

Katharine House Hospice

Visit our volunteer opportunities page to explore that wide-ranging volunteer roles available to support Katharine House Hospice.
To find out more about the work we do, read What we do.
Read about the End-of-life care and Palliative Care (EPiC) Resource Centre, designed to support you and your family and friends, wherever you are in your journey with Katharine House Hospice.
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