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Volunteer helps “heartbroken” mother regain hope

Sophie Siddall, hospital volunteer

A mother has thanked hospital volunteer Sophie Siddall for giving her hope again. Feeling devastated after being told her daughter would not attend mainstream school due to disabilities, the local resident then visited County Hospital for an appointment, where she happened to be greeted by Sophie - “the most positive person she has ever met”.

UHNM received a letter of thanks from the mother, which read:

“Shortly before my appointment I had just had a meeting where I had been told that my little girl would be unable to go to mainstream school because her disability needs could not be met. To say I was heartbroken was an understatement.

“I was in two minds about attending as I was so upset, but l went and I’m so glad I did because I was met with a young lady who was disabled and working as a volunteer. She was in a wheelchair and I cannot tell you the impact she had on me at one of my most vulnerable times. From what I thought was a dull future for my daughter, this one person brought light to my life.

“She is the most positive person I’ve ever met and I am so grateful for her as I now know there is definitely a future for disabled children.

“We need to see more disabled people being given the opportunity to live the same as others. They deserve every right.

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, not just for giving this young lady a chance but for helping me see there is a future. I struggled to accept my daughter’s disability, but wow! What an inspiration this lady is. She will definitely be someone I will never forget and I will definitely be telling other parents that the future is not always dark.

“Sophie is amazing and definitely a voice for other disabled people.”

Sophie has been given the Chief Executive’s award in recognition of the difference she made to this family.

Tracy Bullock, chief executive, said: “People with disabilities add so much value to our organisation and what we do. Sophie has clearly made a massive difference, which is so fantastic.”

Sophie said: “When I was younger I was told I wouldn't be able to do anything.

“This lady was told that her daughter wouldn't be able to go to primary school and I was told the same, so knowing I have helped them realise they are not alone and that there is a bright future is fantastic.

“When you go into a work place, you don't see many disabled people, so for her to see me, I am glad I could give her the feeling of relief, knowing that there can be a future and I am so glad I was able to give her hope.”

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