Life can be hectic and it’s easy to focus on our own problems, without pausing to think of those around us. Indeed, who has time to worry about others, when we all have our own issues to deal with?
However, there are times when personal issues can spill over, and alone, they can make one feel isolated, scared and powerless to cope. Terminal illness is a common example, whereby without the right support, people just could not survive on their own.
Fundamentally, humans are not designed to be alone; they naturally form groups, often living together as families, working as part of organisations and coming together for social occasions. In this way, societies have formed over centuries to shape the everyday life we now, for the most, partake in.
The word society derives its meaning from the Greek word ‘socus locus’, which implicitly means that members of a society share mutual interests or concerns, as well as common goals and characteristics. Due to the increasing fragmentation of today’s society, however, this meaning is often lost. It is a fact that we are leading busier lives, with longer working hours and less time to stop and consider what is happening around us.
Regardless of these reasons, it must not be forgotten that it’s crucial for people to help each other. This is particularly pertinent for those suffering from, or who are affected by, long-term illness.
Take cancer, for example. There are increasing numbers of people affected by some form of cancer, and without the right knowledge, treatment, support and funds, the effects can be overwhelming and devastating.
Volunteering is a great way to help, and as well as improving people’s understanding, it helps ensure more money is raised for medical research and life-saving treatment and care. There are many ways to help out in society, and by working together, lives can be improved.
Fundraising is one of the most vital tasks volunteers carry out. Either joining an existing group, or setting up your own one can help raise finance for those who need it. And, with creativity being a key element, you can have real fun whilst you make money, such as hiking across the Great Wall of China in a swimming costume, or attempting to hold the world’s biggest coffee morning!
Alternatively, you could become an ambassador for a charity, whereby you support other volunteers, organise public collections or hold talks and presentations, with the aim of raising people’s awareness of the issues and what they can do to help.
Students, or those looking to change their careers, can also become involved by choosing to take up a work placement or internship with a cancer charity. You could also improve your C.V. or enhance practical skills by, for example, assisting a charity in its public relations or event management department.
Whether you are retired and have lots of extra time, or can literally spare two hours every three months, cancer volunteering can help save lives and provides the support needed for those diagnosed with the illness.
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