Cathy Francis, 50

HELPS FAMILIES, SYDNEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL, RANDWICK

I was diagnosed with cancer in my left leg at 40 and underwent eight months of chemo, then surgery, then a year of intense physio.

I was so lucky and grateful to be alive and so appreciative of the great health care I received that I wanted to give something back. I thought how hard it must be for children who are sick, so I volunteered for the Sydney Children’s Hospital.

I work mostly in the Food Challenge Ward, where I welcome and stay with families who come for their children to be challenged with a food they may be allergic to. I make light conversation and play board games, colour in or read with the children if their parents need a break to get coffee.

I also sometimes help the public relations team; for example, when the Wiggles came to visit they sang a song to every child. I went ahead reminding the wards we were about to arrive. I also get the joyous job of giving children with cystic fibrosis special glass beads they receive in hospital. Their smiles are infectious and always remind me of the joy in little things.

Volunteering has given me a sense of purpose and opportunities to meet people from all walks of life. It’s lovely to see the emails, letters and cards of gratitude we receive from the families. It’s never easy seeing any sick child, but I try to shield my heart and still be me. And I feel deeply honoured and humbled to share in their lives.

“I feel deeply honoured and humbled to be a part of their lives.”