Cancer Survivor Finds New Purpose Volunteering

Kathy McGuire, who received a cancer diagnosis in 2007, has dedicated nearly 15 years to volunteering at London Health Sciences Centre. Her journey began with a routine clinic visit that revealed advanced cancer, leading to years of treatment including surgeries and chemotherapy.

Now a survivor, McGuire finds purpose by assisting new patients at the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre. She helps them navigate their initial appointments and answers their questions, drawing from her own experiences.

Inspired by the volunteers who supported her during her treatment, McGuire aims to provide the same level of reassurance to others. She emphasizes connection, letting patients know someone who has navigated a similar path is there to help.

Volunteers like McGuire are crucial to the patient experience at London Health Sciences Centre. Meaghan Innes, manager of volunteer services, noted that volunteers help reduce stress for patients and visitors, support clinic flow, and free up staff for direct care.

The program continually adapts to community and patient needs, with volunteers receiving training to ensure they are prepared and supported. McGuire finds her volunteer work deeply rewarding, transforming a difficult life experience into a source of meaning.