The Norfolk and Norwich say farewell to two valued volunteers

Mike and Carol Bishop have retired from volunteering at the Cardiology department at NNUH after 13 years’ loyal service. Mike, a previous cardiology patient, and his wife had decided to repay the department who helped him.

A previous prison officer, Mike felt unwell and collapsed whilst at work. “I was carrying out my usual rounds when I didn’t feel right, thankfully I was beside the nursing bay and could ask for some help,” Mike explains, “Shortly after, I was agony clutching my chest, the paramedics rushed me to the N&N who were able to treat me. That was 17 years ago and thanks to the staff in the cardiology department I am still here – they saved my life!”

Mike and his wife Carol have volunteered at the N&N since 2003 and have been ordering, storing and transporting the range of 20 British Heart Foundation booklets, as well as distributing them across the hospital on a weekly basis.

Julie Rodgers, NNUH Cardiology Specialist Nurse said: “Patients really benefit from the booklets which are specific to certain areas of the condition which they are struggling with or want to find out more information about. The leaflets are quite sizeable and heavy so it has been no mean feat and been very much appreciated by the team here in the Cardiology Department.”

Carol added: “We really have enjoyed volunteering at the hospital and are humbled that they put on this get together for us; it should be us thanking the hospital for all they’ve done for us and not the other way round! We have been volunteering for a number of years now and have decided to enjoy our retirement and let the youngsters carry the heavy leaflets!”

A small celebration event was held by the team with gifts and a  special cake with the British Heart Foundation leaflets printed on top, were presented to Mike and Carol.

Note to editors
To volunteer at the hospital and to find out what opportunities are available please contact the volunteers team on volunteers@nnuh.nhs.uk

Every year, more than 20 million people across England and the UK volunteer, donating more than 100 million hours to their communities every week. It has been estimated that the economic value of this activity is worth in excess of £40 billion to  the economy.

Cardiology Team with volunteers Carol and Mike