Why I volunteer…
“I live in tynemouth with my wife Sue and two daughters, Tillie and Bella. Don’t forget Edie the Cavapoo! I love cooking, travel, surfing and all types of motorcycles - and a drop of Bourbon.
I first heard about Northumbria Blood Bikes when I found myself sitting in NSECH hospital, in Cramlington, for end of life care with my Dad, Big Nev - who had been in this ward for 7 days on end of life care. My mam and I were sitting at his bedside for that full 7 days. Every evening I heard motorbikes pulling up below the window, outside the Pathology lab entrance. Northumbria Blood Bikes delivered notes from the care home to NSECH during this journey. I thought to myself ‘ These guys are amazing’.
I checked out the website and signed up there and then to be a Blood Bike volunteer in the capacity of a Blood Bike Rider. My induction was literally 2 weeks later, I started my ROSPA advanced motorcycle training shortly after this. Then COVID struck, I managed to squeeze my training in and get riding within a few months. Thankfully able to contribute as a Blood Bike Rider during the COVID pandemic. Thanks to the efforts of my instructor Geoff, also a volunteer.
I am a Blood Bike rider and have also attended several charity / fundraising events like the Emergency Services fun day. I am planning on getting further involved with more fundraising and advanced motorcycle assessor / trainer role.
I run a small technology business, at North Shields Fish Quay, this involves travel away from home a lot. Sometimes it is difficult to fit my minimum 2 shifts a month in - however, this is so rewarding when on shift. Feeling like you are giving something back to the NHS and also working with other AMAZING VOLUNTEERS. Balancing work, family and volunteering makes for an action packed diary.
The best thing about being a volunteer with Blood Bikes is being a cog in the giant NHS wheel and making a difference to ‘Someone’ on every shift makes for a real sense of achievement.
The most memorable moment I have experienced I have to say is Santa Run arranged by our fabulous volunteer team. Delivering donated children’s presents to those unfortunately in hospitals over the festivities. I did have a tear running down my face when we arrived at the Freeman hospital, little Bea, who was waiting for a heart transplant and can only have been about 3 years old - waiting outside for us to arrive. She loves motorbikes and the Blood Bikes in particular. This really smashed me to be honest.
I was in the merchant Navy as a Ventilation Officer, for many years, I enjoyed the role and teamwork. Being a Blood Bike Rider feels in some ways similar, being tasked with high priority jobs and being part of a team. Working over a radio independently, yet often working as part of a Relay with another National Blood Bike Charity. Getting the job done sometimes in difficult weather conditions and against the clock. The challenge, the Comradery and sense of purpose amongst the team. Being thanked by NHS professionals when you have made a difference to patient outcome - now that’s job satisfaction.
My name is Chad and that’s why I volunteer for Northumbria Blood Bikes.”
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