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Throughout this uncertain time we have been blown away by the drive and enthusiasm of our volunteers.
Today, we're getting to know Martin who has been a part of the team supporting staff and patients directly at The Beatson, providing hand sanitiser at the entrances of the hospital.
What compelled you to volunteer during COVID-19?
I already volunteer with Beatson Cancer Charity and love the work, the people and the fantastic atmosphere amongst staff, volunteers and patients. I thought it would be great if the same positive aura created within the charity environment could be brought to the NHS during this troublesome time, and perhaps I could do a little something to help.
How are you keeping busy at home?
I was going to say housekeeping, but who am i kidding. Mainly trying to keep the alarmingly persistent squirrels from ripping up my plant pots.
Who are you missing the most?
My mum. I visit her every Saturday and have her newspaper ready for her getting out her bed. Then we go to Tesco. She fries me breakfast and I complete her list of jobs. She then makes dinner for the family. It's a good day. Then my friends (especially a wee session with the guys in the Esquire watching football and laughing so much we've no idea who won or what the score was). And of course the wonderful people from the cafe (and surrounding areas).
How are you keeping in touch with friends and family?
You might have noticed my previous answer and thought "hes not mentioned the rest of his family". But don't despair. We have set up a Whatsapp group and have a slightly chaotic quiz on Zoom every week (anybody else hate how they look and sound?).
Any top tips for coping with lockdown?
Get out and volunteer IF its possible for you to do so. Having work to go to brings a structure to your week, allows you to mix with people (distanced at two metres of course) and is, of course, very satisfying.
What are you looking forward to the most when the lockdown comes to an end?
In no particular order. Mum, Friends, Esquire, Benidorm.
Have you had any baking or DIY disasters?
I suddenly fancied something different late one night. Found one of these pancake mix things you buy in a plastic tub from Tesco. If I'm being honest I'm not a great one for bothering with instructions, but what can go wrong??. I shook it up and poured it into a frying pan, and ended up with a burned, solid tar-like stuff on the surface of the frying pan - and a disgusting gooey uncooked white mess on the top. Took days to scrape it off. Gordon Ramsay I ain't, although did quite a good impression with the language
Do you have any box set, book or film recommendations?
Loving the old football games being shown on BBC Scotland. Proper football when men were men and so were the wummin. Great stuff. Dougie MacLean (the man who wrote Caledonia) does a live 30 min concert every second night, and the next one is Live - 17. Not to be missed. See it on YouTube live or Facebook.
Do you have a message to share with our brilliant NHS and key workers?
I admire above anything else, people who have a real work ethic, have pride in what they do, work hard without complaint with or without reward. It restores my faith that there are still many people with these qualities and gives me hope for us all.
Thank you for your time Martin and for all the wonderful volunteer work you're doing!
Why not read about our other Volunteer Star John here who is also helping at The Beatson during these times.
