Tony’s story
“The future of RMHA to continue operating successfully and support the many deserving families who wish to be close to their sick child in the Starship Children’s Hospital is of paramount importance.” — Tony
“My working life was primarily involved in international marketing so I had little time to participate in the local community in a volunteering capacity. When I retired I devoted my time to my grandchildren, assisting with their upbringing. They eventually commenced their schooling leaving me with more time to look at other things I could become involved with.
“With the near completion of the new Auckland City Hospital a call went out for volunteers to man the various help desks to ensure visitors and new patients were delivered relatively stress free to their desired destination. I was accepted in the initial draft of 12 applicants in July 2003 which then grew to 120 to cover ACH and the Green Clinical Centre. I still maintain this interest.
“In February 2006 I noticed a request in the RMHA Homepage newsletter for volunteers. I immediately applied and was accepted for a range of duties under the direction of the CEO. I wanted a challenge and this was forthcoming in roles such as reorganising and maintaining some of our major storerooms, filing of essential documents and even being the regular barman at House functions. I also have the opportunity to contribute ideas which I feel may assist the operations of the House.
“After experiencing first hand the operations of RMHA, it was obvious with escalating annual running costs that financial assistance was required to ensure income was available well into the future. I accordingly became a member of the Bequest Society committee to plan and arrange for interested people to make a bequest in their wills to the long term benefit of the House. To assist with this objective we have three lunch meetings a year with interesting speakers to give those who are considering leaving a bequest an opportunity to see firsthand the House, meet the families who rely on it, and to ask any relevant questions.
“To my mind the future of RMHA to continue operating successfully and support the many deserving families who wish to be close to their sick child in the Starship Children’s Hospital is of paramount importance.”
