A BRAIN tumour survivor who has helped reduce loneliness for patients on a hospital ward has received recognition for her volunteering efforts.

Amanda Jane Morris, who is a member of the Royal Voluntary Society, received the Outstanding Voluntary Contribution Award at this year’s Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s Achievement Awards.

The dedicated volunteer, who is regularly seen at Ysbyty Alltwen keeping patients company on the ward, was a member of the Royal Air Force in 1985 but unfortunately developed a brain tumour which left her needing a number of operations, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

In 1995 she travelled to New York where she underwent an operation to remove the majority of a tumour on her brain stem, which saved her life, but left her disabled and in a wheelchair.

Amanda, from Pwllheli, decided to take up voluntary work to give back to the local community, who helped her raise thousands of pounds towards her trip to New York for her lifesaving operation.

She said: “I was fed up and had nothing to do so my mother suggested that I start doing voluntary work in a hospital.

“I then contacted the RVS department and a meeting was set up for me in Ysbyty Alltwen for an interview which was successful.

“I absolutely love visiting Ysbyty Alltwen and I really enjoy seeing and talking to different people.

“I love giving something back to people now as others have helped and been so kind to me over the years.”

Louise Davies, matron at Ysbyty Alltwen, who nominated Amanda for the award, described her as “an invaluable member of the team”.

She said: “Amanda has been a member of the RVS team at Ysbyty Alltwen for 10 months now and has become a familiar sight whizzing around in her wheelchair.

“She is an invaluable member of our team here and is always willing and ready to assist patients and visitors who attend the hospital.

“She has undertaken questionnaires regarding patient satisfaction in the out patients department and always has time for everyone.

“Amanda goes above and beyond in reducing loneliness and boredom for patients on the ward.

“A recent example is where she befriended an elderly gentleman who has been in hospital for some time who had no family and no friends. She ensured that she visited him every week, built a rapport and encouraged him to mobilise and set goals so that eventually he was able to walk to the canteen to have a cup of coffee and a chat.

“The difference that she made for this gentleman was truly amazing and through her regular chats and encouragement she gave him the confidence to participate in social activities and groups on discharge, Amanda’s bright, cheerful and sunny disposition allowed this. It is something that you cannot measure and most certainly can’t put a price on.”

Alex Budden, public sector external account manager of Lenovo, who sponsored the Outstanding Voluntary Contribution Award, said: “It was great to hear three examples of people giving up their time to make a difference for others.

“Amanda was a worthy winner of the award and is a true inspiration, and everyone at Lenovo congratulates her on their selfless work.”