Last week our Emergency Department team at Calderdale Royal Hospital celebrated a milestone birthday with their volunteer, Phil Hellawell.
Phil, who turned 80, has been volunteering for six years following the death of his wife.
He said: “I was born in this hospital and so was most of my family. It has always been there for us when we have had any health needs, so it is lovely to be able to repay that by volunteering.
“Since my wife died six years ago, volunteering for the NHS has been the bedrock of my life and my two years on Children’s Ward and three years on A&E have been truly rewarding experiences.”
“I was made to feel welcome in ED from the very first day and, although it takes time to recognise how and when you can help, the staff have always made sure that I feel at home and belong in their team. I am so grateful to all of them. They are a truly wonderful bunch of human beings and it is the privilege of a lifetime to be part of their team. My Monday and Wednesday shifts are the highlight of my week.
“CRH A&E is my happy place and there is nowhere that I would rather have spent my 80th birthday than on shift - a brilliant day.”
Urgent and Emergency Care Matron, Leanne Baziw, said: “Phil's kindness, compassion and dedication make a real difference to our patients and team. We truly appreciate all that he does."