Susanna Kenny

My name is Susanna Kenny.

I applied to be a volunteer with Mayo Hospice after having a tour and introduction to the beautiful new building of Mayo Hospice in March 2021. 

I had often played pitch and putt with my family on these grounds before the Hospice was built. My abiding memory of such a game was with my sister Jean’s three children. My sister was recovering from cancer of the tongue, throat and tonsils at the time.

She was so ill and so weak at the time. She just sat on a seat as we did the rounds of the course. I must say that at that time we just tried to make the most of our time together and did not know what the future held for Jean or her lovely young family. Thankfully Jean made a full recovery and has enjoyed many years of good health and the happiness of seeing her children grow up, get married and she is now the proud Granny of 4 beautiful grandchildren and hopefully more to come.  

Back in 2021 I was self-employed at the time and hoping to retire. I was a bit concerned that I would be bored with the new retired life, so I had to get a plan for Susanna. I am delighted that my application was accepted and I now volunteer in Mayo Hospice. I cover reception and give the full-time staff a lunch and tea break on a rostered basis. We are like a happy family of volunteers with superb training.  

As volunteers we have regular “get togethers” organised with food, drink and an opportunity to catch up and get to know everyone. I am enjoying my time with Hospice in its beautiful surroundings. I am not involved in the care of patients but I am on the receiving end of how happy everyone is with the courtesy shown to them and how happy they are with the care provided to their loved ones.