Man whose mother was cared for at St Giles Hospice now volunteers to help others

Among them is Ian Lewis, from Hopwas. Ian is a relatively new volunteer who joined the Lymphoedema Clinic at St Giles in early 2024 after the death of his mother at the hospice in 2023. 

At 52, Ian represents a younger generation of volunteers who are choosing to give back. Following the sale of his business a few years ago, Ian found himself in the fortunate position to be able to dedicate his time to a cause close to his heart. Now, every Friday, he volunteers for four hours at the hospice, providing admin support to the Lymphoedema team. 

Ian said: “I chose to volunteer because my mother was in the Inpatient Unit for a couple of weeks prior to the end of her life, and the care she received was beyond fantastic. 

“Even before she died, I said to her, I’d like to try to do something to thank St Giles for all that they had done for her.” 

The Lymphoedema Clinic provides physical treatment and emotional support to adults and children affected by lymphoedema, an incurable condition which causes swelling, discomfort and pain. Volunteers like Ian play a vital role in creating a calm, supportive environment. 

Ian continued: “Me and my business partner were lucky enough to sell our company a few years ago, so I don’t work full time anymore. 

"I’ve got a bit of time a couple of days a week, so I make the most of it by volunteering at St Giles, which has given so much to my family - not just through the support they provided to my mother, but in many other ways too. Spending four hours volunteering on a Friday morning gives me a real sense of focus and purpose for the day." 

Kevin Lowe, Volunteer Coordinator at St Giles Hospice, said: “Ian has been a fantastic addition to the team – his personal connection to St Giles makes his contribution all the more special. We are incredibly grateful to him and to all our volunteers for the time they give to St Giles Hospice.” 

St Giles Hospice supports local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness. They couldn't do what they do without their dedicated team of over 900 volunteers.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities at St Giles Hospice, visit stgileshospice.com/support-us/volunteer