Gloria knows just how hard it is to go through the stress of a cancer diagnosis. After suffering her own diagnosis and treatment for a squamous cell carcinoma in her neck and throat 7 years ago, Gloria got through a tough time with the support of her family and friends.
Meet Gloria - CanCare Volunteer
While in hospital, it struck her how many people were undergoing treatment for cancer alone, with no visitors or a much -needed support network. It was during her hospital visit that Gloria thought she would like to do something to help people with cancer who do not have a lot of support. After reading about CanCare and how the service focused on people who do not have a lot of support, she decided this was the type of volunteer role she wanted.
“I love to meet new people and listen to their stories, and it’s a privilege to be allowed into their lives at such a difficult time. I love doing anything I can to make it easier for them”
Gloria’s work with people with cancer ranges from helping them organise transport to hospital to connecting them to support services, finding domestic help or being there for moral support. Like talking on the phone or taking them out for a coffee and a chat.
“I have seen first-hand how having someone there listening and showing that you’re there for them can make such a big difference”.
While Gloria has since retired from volunteering with CanCare, she found it a very rewarding experience and she knows the support she provided made a real difference at such a difficult time.
