Volunteer: Krys' Story

Volunteering at Oxford Head Injury Services

I started volunteering here more than 3 years ago. I used to work as a legal secretary, but unfortunately I was diagnosed with cancer. Following treatment, I asked my employers if I could take voluntary redundancy as I didn’t know when I would be well enough to go back to my very demanding, 100 mph job. They were reluctant to let me go, but the decision was made easier by the fact that we were on furlough, as Covid was in full swing. When I felt well enough, I got in touch with my team leader (who was a Trustee of Headway). They gave me contact details and now here I am.

I love being a volunteer as I always wanted to be a nurse but that never happened as life got in the way. My role here is as a carer and friend to our service users satisfies my inner want to have a caring role. Through volunteering,  I  feel that I have found myself again. I have made lots of friends among the staff and the service users and I feel totally fulfilled. I love seeing the smiles and the pleasure I can give on my days at Oxford Head Injury Services. I participate in all activities, wash up, make drinks and generally all that is required in a day at Oxford Head Injury Services.

I highly recommend volunteering here. You have to have a good sense of humour, to be vigilant and to have a caring nature, and the role brings huge rewards.

Krys x