The Henry Bloom Noble Healthcare Trust has supported a committed volunteer at Noble’s Hospital who faced difficulties due to his extensive work.
John Hines, a wheelchair user who volunteers 40-50 hours weekly, developed pressure sores from travelling around the hospital.
As well as delivering letters and flowers to patients and helping them at mealtime, John also offers companionship to dementia patients.
Upon learning of this, the Trust provided a £700 medical-grade air cushion and a new backrest for his wheelchair.
“It’s made a big difference,” John said.
Prevention
The cushion features a pump that moves air in a ripple fashion, continuously shifting skin contact points to aid prevention and healing.
Trustee Malcolm Clague, a former hospital surgeon, said: “The Trust was very happy to fund the air cushion and new back support for John. I very much appreciate the dedication and hours of invaluable work and support that volunteers at the Hospital put in.”
John finds his work offering companionship to dementia patients particularly rewarding. “My father-in-law died with dementia so it’s nice to help other people who have it,” he said.
Volunteer Officer Tanya Corlett added: “John has proved himself to be invaluable.”
Over the festive season the 40-strong team of volunteers at Noble’s Hospital will be continuing to play their part in supporting patients and their families.