Volunteers

Rita Moore's story

I’ve been volunteering at the local branch of the PDS for over eight years now. A very close friend of mine had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and began going to meetings alone so I started going along to keep her company.

The volunteering started gradually. It started with me helping out with the regular raffle, then I was asked to organise the transport we provide for our members to meetings and events. From there, I took on the job of Branch Secretary, and just recently have been appointed as Vice Chairman.

I really enjoy volunteering at our branch. I’m a 73 year-old retired widow and the grandchildren I helped to look after have now grown up. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and keeps me active.
All the branch members have become my friends and there is a real sense of camaraderie in the group.

I’ve found that once people start coming to meetings they carry on. Everyone enjoys themselves. As the social secretary of the branch, I organise a programme of activities, which includes lunches, days out and sometimes even an extended holiday - which are all good fun and can help relieve some of the stress that comes from living with Parkinson’s.

I’ve found volunteering for the PDS so worthwhile - not only for those I’m helping but for me as well. I’ve become more caring and aware of how lucky I am.