One moment sparked Silpa’s desire to volunteer

Years ago, Silpa Shah visited St Luke’s Hospice where her aunt was receiving care during her last few days.

“I was quite young then,” the Kenton local says. “I came with my mum and we went to see my aunt and I thought, this is such a compassionate, caring environment.”

Though a sad time, that moment stayed with her and she remembered the friendly, warm atmosphere of St Luke’s provided her family.

Silpa has supported St Luke’s through fundraising activities ever since, and two years ago she began volunteering on reception, greeting patients, families and visitors, answering calls and helping people find their way.

For her, it is about giving back. She sees her role as part of something bigger at St Luke’s.

“I’m not in the medical field, but I know that anything I can do helps. I can see that we’re providing a nice, calm, warm, welcoming environment. If that gives people any sort of comfort, I think that’s nice. That’s my little bit.”

Silpa’s proud of her work at St Luke’s. For her, it all comes back to that first visit – seeing what compassion looks like in action, and wanting to be part of it.

Today, she is one of many volunteers helping St Luke’s support people across Harrow and Brent at some of the most difficult times in their lives.

If you would like to be part of that, visit our volunteers page.