Our fantastic volunteer, Dave McTernan shares why he volunteers for Epilepsy Scotland and what he has gained by volunteering.
My role as moderator in the Facebook support group is to help with the smooth running of the group.
To add new members when requested and to ensure that it’s a safe and confidential environment by monitoring posts/comments.
Also, to help members with any enquiries they may have relating to the group and Epilepsy Scotland’s many services.
I try to spread epilepsy awareness and support people I know, volunteering as a moderator allows me to do the same but with many more people.
I love volunteering for Epilepsy Scotland, they are a charity very close to my heart. There are more than 55,000 people in Scotland living with this condition and Epilepsy Scotland are a voice for all of us and our families.
I approached Epilepsy Scotland when I was having a particularly difficult time handling my life with epilepsy and they were a huge support to me.
Volunteering
I initially decided to offer to volunteer as a thank you to them for literally saving my life and I’m so pleased that I did.
Volunteering gives me a purpose, it motivates me to keep fighting and makes me feel useful.
I have met some amazing people, had some amazing experiences and although I have lived with epilepsy for 38 years, I still learn something new about it daily.
The team at Epilepsy Scotland always makes me feel welcome and continues to show me support.
Feeling like I belong and am valued is a huge boost to my mental health and my outlook on life.
I am unable to work full-time due to the unpredictable nature and quantity of my seizures so volunteering is a fantastic way to still contribute to society.
I highly recommend volunteering to anyone that has considered doing so but is unsure. Having that purpose and the feeling of giving back is a whole reward in itself.
The benefits of volunteering are 100 times more than the time committed.
If you are thinking of becoming a volunteer with Epilepsy Scotland, please email us at fundraising@epilepsyscotland.org.uk or call us on 0141 427 4911
