Lionne joins hospital

'I have a hospital appointment soon, but I am reluctant to go alone. Is there anyone who can go with me to support me and help me remember what the doctor says?'

Two hear more than one

Yes, volunteers like Lionne from Patiӫntsupport are happy to go along. Dolly can relate to that. When she has an appointment at the hospital, volunteer Lionne goes with her. 'Very nice to have Lionne there. Two hear more than one,' says Dolly. 'Appointments often go so quickly. I discuss everything after with Lionne and ask her opinion. That gives peace of mind.'

Preparation and follow-up

Lionne picks up Dolly at home. On the way, they discuss the appointment and any questions. During the conversation with the doctor, Lionne listens in, repeating important information and helping Dolly to understand everything properly. 'Sometimes you only hear the diagnosis and miss the rest. Then it's nice to have someone calmly explain it again later,' Lionne says.

More than practical

'Going along is not only practical,' says Lionne. 'It is also comforting. Just by being there. That you don't have to do it alone.' If someone prefers to go in alone, she waits in the hall. Everything by mutual agreement.

Flexible and meaningful

Lionne combines her work at Patient Support with ANWB AutoMaatje. For instance, she drives Dolly to the hospital in her own car. 'I get a small mileage allowance, but the most important thing is that I can mean something. Helping people is in my nature.'

Relief for family and informal carers

By going along, Lionne not only relieves the patient, but also family and informal carers. 'They don't have to take time off work. I feedback information and thus also give them some peace of mind.'

A click and a bright spot

Dolly and Lionne have a special bond. 'She has such a good heart,' says Dolly. 'We understand each other with half a word.' Says Lionne: 'You only need to be available for a few hours a week to be a bright spot for someone else.'

 

Going to the doctor together: small effort, big difference

- Lionne, volunteer