Patient to volunteer, Paul and Luna give back

After receiving care from the team at our Therapy & Wellbeing Centre, Paul from Stafford was so impressed that he’s joining our tai chi sessions and our fatigue and breathlessness programme. He’s volunteered to help at our outpatient reception as well!

“It’s so friendly and open here, the staff are brilliant,” Paul told us. He’s been supported by our doctor, Dr Sarah, and outpatient nurse, Nicky, and his experience has inspired him to become an active part of our community.

Social wellbeing

Recently, Paul also enjoyed his first coffee morning and brought along his loyal companion, Luna. Our weekly coffee mornings offer a warm, welcoming space for a cuppa, a chat and a chance to connect with others on similar health journeys. They provide a relaxed environment where people can feel at ease and our expert staff are on hand for support and advice.

Luna, a beautiful German Shepherd-Husky cross, will be nine next May. Paul has owned her since she was just seven weeks old, and the pair share an incredible bond. More than just a pet, Luna is Paul’s assistance dog, and impressively, she trained herself.

More than just a pet

“She lets me know when anyone’s at the door before they even get halfway up the path,” Paul told us.

“She picks up post or anything I drop. She’s never been trained, she’s just highly intelligent.

“If the fire alarm goes off, she’ll get me out of the room. If my BiPAP breathing alarm goes off, she’ll wake me up.

“She’s a very friendly, loving dog.”

Luna certainly made the most of their visit. She made plenty of new friends, including Stacey, a Student Nursing Associate from Stafford Hospital. Stacey joined us for the day on placement and is soon set to qualify as a Registered Nursing Associate. She said shaking paws with Luna was a lovely, unexpected moment that brightened her day.