“Hi there, how’s it going? It’s wonderful to see you,” greets Honor Cousens as she navigates a trolley filled with chilled beverages, treats, toiletries, newspapers, and magazines.
A well-known figure within the Royal London Hospital, Honor has dedicated many years to helping both patients and staff alike.
She is a member of the Friends of the Royal London Hospital, a charitable organization that has been active at the Whitechapel location since 1979.
“Each day brings something new. The sense of community in a hospital is unlike anything you can imagine,” Honor remarks.
In recognition of her contributions, the 70-something Honor received a British Empire Medal on the New Year Honours list last year.
For years, she has traversed the hospital’s extensive corridors, delivering refreshments to patients confined to their beds and to staff who lack the time to step away during their shifts.
As part of her volunteering, she also offers a listening ear to anyone who feels anxious about their health or simply wishes to chat with a warm presence.
“I’ve experienced many of the challenges that patients face,” Honor reflects.
Last year, she found herself in the role of a patient after being diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer.
“It’s something you’d never expect to happen,” she says. The experience of her diagnosis and treatment provided her with a new outlook on how medical anxieties can weigh heavily on one’s mind, she shares.
“I remind them to consider, ‘Have you treated yourself to something nice today?'”
Honor emphasizes that both staff and patients gain from the services provided by the trolley and the conversations that accompany it.
“It’s truly remarkable to meet people from all walks of life. It’s very uplifting,” she explains.
“You might encounter someone once and never see them again, but you can learn so much and perhaps lift their spirits in the process.
“We even have chocolates that many patients like to buy for the nurses,” she reveals.
“It’s incredible how many individuals are eager to talk. I just wish that more people would consider volunteering, as it makes a difference for the patients.
“We serve over 700 patients here, and it would be wonderful to reach out to each of them daily.”
