Four local volunteers who run the Macmillan Unit Bereavement Call Service at Antrim Hospital have been recognised as runners up in the Thanks To You Awards.
Helen Kernahan, Anne Orr, Mandy Bones and Clodagh Elliott from the Bereavement Call Service volunteer team support people whose loved ones have died from cancer in the unit.
The awards celebration was hosted by Macmillan Cancer Support to recognise its community of volunteers and supporters.
The Bereavement Service, which launched in November 2024, has supported over 150 families in this time and provides a source of comfort and compassion to people in Antrim and the surrounding area, to ensure that no one feels forgotten.
The women call and provide a listening ear as well as additional helpful information and support available from Macmillan and other local organisations.
Helen, Anne, Mandy and Clodagh were already volunteers in the Macmillan Unit when they were invited to take part in the new service. Each brought their own experience, compassion and calm presence to the role and in a short time, the Bereavement Call Service volunteer team has become an invaluable part of the Macmillan Unit.
Clodagh says:“It’s such a privilege to be part of the Macmillan Bereavement Call Service team as it allows us to continue the work we started in the unit while we were caring for their loved ones and ensure they feel supported after their loss.”
“Sometimes people just need to talk to someone different,” says Helen. “To share a memory, to cry, or just to have someone listen. If that small thing brings even a little comfort, then it’s worth everything.”
Sharon O’Donnell and Nicola McAleese, Macmillan Volunteer Coordinators at Antrim Hospital said: “We are delighted that Mandy, Anne, Helen and Clodagh have been recognised in this way for the compassion, empathy and kindness they show during the calls. Their strength, resilience and dedication really enhance the quality of care and support we provide at such a difficult time following bereavement and sometimes lengthy illnesses.”
Chris Parker, Head of Volunteering at Macmillan Cancer Support said: “On behalf of everyone at Macmillan, I want to extend a huge thank you to the volunteer Bereavement Call Service team at Antrim Hospital. Their calls make such a difference to bereaved families – holding time and space for them to share both the emotions and practical challenges that grief can bring. I’d also like to thank all of our amazing volunteers across Northern Ireland for their compassion and the selfless work they do. We simply could not do what we do for people living with cancer without them.”
The Bereavement Call Service