„Hello, how are you? It’s great to see you,“ greets Honor Cousens as she navigates the corridors of the Royal London Hospital with a trolley filled with cold beverages, snacks, toiletries, newspapers, and magazines.
As a dedicated volunteer, Honor has become a well-known presence within the hospital, providing support to both staff and patients for many years. She is affiliated with the Friends of the Royal London Hospital, a charity that has been operational at the Whitechapel location since 1979.
Unique Experience in Hospital Environment
„Every day presents a new experience. The sense of camaraderie found in a hospital is unparalleled,“ Honor remarks.
In recognition of her contributions, Honor, who is in her 70s, received a British Empire Medal in the New Year Honours list last year.
For years, she has been pushing the refreshment trolley through the hospital’s extensive 26 miles of corridors, delivering items to patients confined to their beds and to staff members who lack the opportunity to step away during their shifts.
Part of her responsibilities includes offering a listening ear to those with concerns about their health or anyone who simply wishes to engage in conversation.
Personal Connection to Patients
„I have experienced many of the challenges that patients face,“ Honor shares.
Last year, she became a patient herself after being diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. „You would never anticipate such a situation,“ she reflects. This diagnosis and subsequent treatment provided her with a new understanding of how medical anxieties can weigh heavily on individuals.
„I can assist them by asking, ‚Have you treated yourself to something nice today?'“ she adds.
Honor emphasizes that both staff and patients gain from the trolley service and the conversations that accompany it. „It’s truly remarkable to meet so many individuals from diverse backgrounds. It’s very energizing,“ she states.
- „You might encounter someone once and never see them again, but you learn so much and hopefully brighten their day.“
- „We offer chocolates, which many patients purchase for the nurses,“ she notes.
- „It’s astonishing how many people are eager to talk. It’s enjoyable, and I wish more individuals would consider volunteering, as it is essential for the patients.“
„With over 700 patients here, it would be wonderful to reach out to each one daily,“ she concludes.
Bildquelle: Bildquelle: (Augustin-Foto) Jonas Augustin auf Unsplash
