02 March 2026

For National Volunteer Week, we celebrate Doug, a dedicated volunteer guide at Lyell McEwin Hospital (LMH).

After losing his mum, who received care through the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN) — Doug turned to volunteering as a way to reconnect with others, give back and find renewed purpose.

Volunteer standing in the entrance of a hospital
Image: Doug is one of our friendly volunteer guides at Lyell McEwin Hospital.

Since February 2025, he has been volunteering two days a week, and now encourages others to consider volunteering too, saying it has brought meaning, connection and joy to his life.

Whether he is helping someone who’s arrived at the wrong place, or simply asking how someone is doing, Doug knows that the small moments matter.

He loves visiting the wards on Fridays with the library trolley, sharing books, magazines and conversation with patients who often just need someone to talk to.

Described as kind and thoughtful, Doug brings empathy shaped by personal experience. “It’s a very thankful job, I love it,” he says.

For Doug, volunteering isn’t just about giving back, it’s something he looks forward to every week.

“If you are thinking about volunteering, just give it a go! It’s without a doubt one of the best things to do,” he says.

If you would like to volunteer at NALHN like Doug, visit the Northern Healthcare Volunteer Association website to learn more and get involved.