Sandy Dawson, one of our special volunteers, says meeting the wonderful people who make up the Sweet Louise community is why she enjoys volunteering so much.
“Although what I do for Sweet Louise is small, I hope it makes a difference. I hope I can help make a better day for someone who is down. I am proud to be involved with an organisation that makes a difference to so many people at a challenging time in their lives.
“I initially started volunteering as a driver for Sweet Louise after being shoulder tapped by my friend (Louise’s sister) who was looking for someone to help out on the North Shore. As I had the time and a vehicle, I was very happy to help out with this great organisation.
“Originally I started driving the Sweet Louise members – members are people who have been diagnosed with incurable breast cancer. I drive a lovely lady for treatment every few weeks and help at the member support meetings on the North Shore. More recently, following a move to living in the city, I sometimes help in the Sweet Louise office with administrative tasks.
“I enjoy volunteering because of the people. The Sweet Louise team are amazing – such empathetic and inspiring people. And I really enjoy the time spent interacting while driving members for treatment and the regular catch ups with members at the member coffee mornings, I am always amazed and inspired by their resilience and positivity.
“The Sweet Louise members are wonderful people from all walks of life sharing a similar journey.
“Volunteering is a wonderful thing to do. I’ve volunteered at various organisations since my late teens – it’s what makes NZ tick and is so important for society.
Sandy manages to fit her volunteer work around her part-time work as an accountant and spending time with family – especially her new grandson! Sandy also loves tramping, skiing, cycling and tennis.
“My tip for keeping positive is to get out of bed early and do some exercise every day – even if it’s a gentle walk for 10 minutes!”
Thank you
Sweet Louise would like to thank Sandy and all our volunteers for their huge contribution.
Your ongoing support makes such a huge difference to members and Sweet Louise, whether you are driving members to meetings, helping at meetings or in the office, or supporting our members in other ways.
He aroha whakatō, He aroha puta mai : If kindness is sown, then kindness you shall receive.
Get involved
Sweet Louise relies on the compassion and generosity of New Zealanders to help us provide our essential services to women and men living with advanced cancer.
