Former nurse Amanda Voets happy to care for patients as a volunteer at Blacktown Hospital

MORE than 50 years after starting her nursing career at Blacktown Hospital, Amanda Voets is still helping patients.

Peter Howard from Marayong with Volunteer Amanda Voets. Picture: Carmela Roche.

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MORE than 50 years after starting her nursing career at Blacktown Hospital, Amanda Voets is still helping patients.

She started as a student nurse there when the hospital opened in 1965, still remains in contact with her former colleagues and has recently become a volunteer at the busy emergency department.

The Seven Hills resident is one of 15 helpers who will be rostered during the day and early evening to provide assistance to patients, carers and visitors by providing beverages and comfort items such as blankets to patients or their relatives while they are being treated in the emergency department.

“I’ve worked as a nurse, raised a family of five, obtained a health communication degree and worked as a health promotion officer for many years; I’ve always end up in health or caring-related fields,” Mrs Voets said.

“This new role seemed like a good fit — I feel I’m a pioneer in something that is very new to health.’’

Volunteer co-ordinator Janice Low said the recruits would “be sensitive and compassionate to each individual’s needs and they’re prepared to help address patient’s concerns and assist clerical staff with basic tasks”.

Full training and support will be provided to applicants.

To volunteer, call 8670 5159 or email [e-mail]