This week, we said farewell to a truly remarkable member of the volunteer team here at Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Friendly faces are essential for our work, and over the last 26 years, Margaret has been a comforting presence for children and their families in their time of need.
As her time with the Foundation comes to an end, we take a look back on her incredible journey and the countless lives she has touched.
Guiding patients and families with care
Joining us in 1999, Margaret worked in Patient Recovery and the Ellen Barron Family Centre before becoming a Wayfinder.
As a Wayfinder, Margaret was often the first friendly face families saw when they arrived, guiding them through the hospital with compassion, care and warmth.
“People are so grateful,” Margaret says. “I’ve had parents get emotional just because I helped them find a teddy bear to comfort their child.”
Known to families and staff for her kindness, reliability and genuine compassion, Margaret has touched countless lives throughout her work with the Foundation, leaving a lasting impact on families across Queensland Children’s Hospital.
“I saw an ad in the paper… so I joined. I also joined the Cancer Council and Red Cross. But I gave up the others to be here,” she says.
“I’m proud to have worked here, it’s just amazing.”
When asked what about volunteering with the Foundation has kept her coming back all these years, she had this to say:
“It’s just amazing. Meeting new people, doing something and helping – that’s what I like doing.”
Continuing Margaret’s legacy
At 85, Margaret has now retired as a Children’s Hospital Foundation volunteer, although her legacy lives on.
Margaret’s commitment to the Foundation and supporting sick Queensland children has inspired the next generation to continue her work.
Her daughter currently volunteers with the Foundation as a Wayfinder and Holding Bay volunteer, and her granddaughter (who is studying to be a doctor) is next in line.
Reflecting on her 26 years of incredible work, Margaret shares one final message:
“Thanks to the Foundation and to all the patient families for making my time as a volunteer so memorable. I would encourage anyone considering volunteering to stop thinking about it and just do it. The work the Foundation does is truly incredible, and I’m so glad I made the choice all those years ago.”
If you’d like to make a difference like Margaret, apply to volunteer with Children’s Hospital Foundation today. We welcome online applications, or feel free to give us a call on 07 3606 6100 to register your interest.
The difference that shapes their world
Through supporting the Children’s Hospital Foundation, you can improve childhoods and ensure all children and young people have access to treatment - sooner.
