Not only is Louise one of our dedicated volunteers, she’s also one of our top fundraisers, raising more than £21,000 over the last five years. She helps at most of our events, including Starlight Stroll, Rainbow Run and Open Gardens, and has taken part in numerous challenges, including trekking both the Camino and Sahara. We spoke to Louise to find out more.

“I like to help the hospice out whenever I can, especially the events. I volunteer for anything that I physically have time to do. I call it my front of house volunteering because back of house is what I do at the NHS for a living.

Whenever I see an upcoming event, the first thing I do is look at my diary and see how it fits with my pet-sitting duties, which is the main way I fundraise for the hospice at the moment.

I can’t remember when I wasn’t involved with the hospice now! I first found out about it when I saw Starlight Stroll on the seafront and I happened to get talking to somebody doing it. The following day I did a little bit of research and then visited the hospice café for a coffee. And I’ve been here ever since!

I love the fact I’m supporting something I really care about, and I really enjoy doing it. It gives me a sense of self-pride. I lost my mum many moons ago and my family never talked about it. We never had a hospice. We never had a safe place, so emotionally, it’s helped me a lot. I’m able to talk about my loss now, which I was never able to do before.

If you’re thinking of volunteering, just come along, it’s a beautiful place. Even if you’ve just got an hour or two. If you’re not comfortable at the hospice, you can help at the events – they’re great fun.

To me, St Wilfrid’s is like a big family and a big hug. Every time I come in here, I just feel that warmth.

I think some people are nervous to visit the hospice, or a little bit hesitant because it’s coming into the unknown and they think it’s only a place of grief and loss. But the other side of the coin is how much you can help others. There is so much you can do.”

Pictured: Louise on the Sahara Trek and at Rainbow Run

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