When I retired from full-time work in 2014, a friend suggested I volunteer at the Samson Centre as they were short of oxygen volunteers. This I did, initially volunteering on a Wednesday once a fortnight. I progressed onto covering office duties whilst Jackie was on holiday. I then became an oxygen therapy co-ordinator on Tuesdays and Fridays and since then have never looked back !
The Samson Centre is a very friendly place to work. I enjoy working with the staff and meeting the members and oxygen clients. The mix of admin work and operating the oxygen chambers keeps me busy. It is very satisfying to see the benefit that oxygen therapy gives to people with all types of conditions, not just MS. We always have a waiting list so I would love to be able to offer longer opening hours but understand the logistics that prevent this.
In my free time I like to keep fit. I go to bootcamp and reformer Pilates. I enjoy walking with friends and my mad spaniel Milo. I love cooking for family and friends, go to a not-very-serious book club and have recently started participating in the occasional pub quiz.
Caroline O’Flanagan
Oxygen Therapy Coordinator
