It was National Volunteering last week – so went to the Hornsey Trust for Children with Cerebral Palsy where they do the most wonderful work. They did a performance of the Christmas Show they are doing for parents. These children have such joy in themselves – as you can see from the photos (and that’s why I held off blogging until now – the photos really tell the story!):
Given the level of disability – it is extraordinary and my recent contact with these children has completely changed my understanding of what quality of life can be achieved. And to understand the love and joy these children bring to not only their parents – but those who work with them.
They are looked after by such a committed and wonderful team I was really pleased to go here for my ‘volunteering’. Having watched the performance – I then went and helped with a computer class – and to my amazement the little girl Erin that I was holding and helping did hit the button that made things move on the screen – and then again and again. And her helper said I could come and work there! I can’t tell you how great it made me feel.
And that is the point really – volunteering of course helps those you go to help – but the rewards and the feelings you get back are better than anything and certainly nothing that money can buy.
Lynne Featherstone 