A DEDICATED mother-of-two who helps fellow sufferers of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Worcester is in the running to become Britain’s Best Volunteer.
Donna Saunders, who has been working as a volunteer for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) for the last eight years, has been announced as one of five finalists for the prestigious award.
The Northwick resident said it was a “nice surprise” to be selected out of the hundreds of nominees for the award which is a partnership between Markel UK and the Small Charities Coalition.
She admitted it was a huge boost for the charity which would secure £1,250 if she claims top prize.
“It’s really lovely that NRAS chose to put me forward because they have got a lot of volunteers who do a lot of work and really help out,” she said.
“It is very humbling that I have been chosen out of all of those people and I am really pleased to have been shortlisted as well.
“I do feel that there probably are a lot more worthy people out there. But I enjoy what I do and I have met some lovely people through NRAS and through the Worcester group which I run.
“This is great for the awareness of NRAS. Although they are a big charity, not everyone has heard of them and unless you know someone who has got Rheumatoid Arthritis you may not know what it is, let alone that there is the national charity out there which can help you.”
Mrs Saunders was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis which is systemic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects joints, when she was just 21 and was forced to retire due to ill health six years later.
After getting involved with the charity, she has launched an educational and social group for people living with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Worcester and the surrounding area.
The 40-year-old believes the group, which meet at the Lyppard Hub in Warndon Villages, has helped to provide support and friendship for its members who also receive advice from health professionals.
“The group has definitely developed,” she said. “In the early days we used to get about three or four people attending whereas now we get about 20 to 25 people at the meeting and we have had about 100 people taking part in the ramble, so it has definitely evolved.
“It is all about getting people together and being able to share experience, stories and tips. But there has also been quite a few friendships created among the group, which has been great to see.”
People can vote for Mrs Saunders by visiting www.markeluk.com/britains-best-volunteer/nominate-vote.aspx
