Why I volunteer by Steve

Kirsty Lawrence's picture


Why I volunteer…

“I heard about the charity through a friend who volunteers for another Blood Bike group in the South West.

We are both keen motorcyclists and are also keen to give to charity. What a great idea to do both. I have always admired volunteers and their dedication to a cause. I joined in March 2024 and became a rider for the first time in the October.

I am a rider and soon to become driver as well. I have just passed my IAM car test required for this further role.

It is often difficult to find the time but I am always keen to help when I can. I work part time as an Airline Pilot and spend a lot of time away, which sometimes makes it even more of a challenge. As my job requires shift work in the Airline I am used to those late night, early mornings, however, some days when I get back from work my body clock needs realigning and so I need a couple of days to adjust to the night shift for NBB. Two shifts a month is normally doable.

When I did my first solo shift, it was very busy and the time flew. It was extremely rewarding, in particular when I knew that blood boxes in particular could be saving lives.

When I was walking into the Freeman hospital one time, a visitor was walking out and she thanked me. She made a comment on what a great job we all do and that made me feel proud that I was doing the right thing.

Volunteering is essential to our communities. I feel proud to be part of such a great charity and I often carry the thought that we do make a difference. It gives me a sense of satisfaction that we are doing some good when there is so much that is not good in the world that we live in. The role is good for mental health and self being in my opinion. 

My name is Steve and that’s why I volunteer for Northumbria Blood Bikes.”

To sign up or for more information on our volunteer roles visit: http://www.northumbriabloodbikes.org.uk/support/volunteer

 

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