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"It's really special": Grandmother volunteers as surrogate for her son's child

<p>The Hauck family is looking forward to welcoming another child into their family later this year, but under very unusual circumstances </p> <p>Jeff and Cambria are parents to four children, who they had through IVF, and wanted one more baby to complete their family. </p> <p>But after Cambria needed a hysterectomy after their last child was born, they had to contemplate using a surrogate. </p> <p>“Cambria needed an emergency hysterectomy after having our boys,” her husband Jeff Hauck told NBC.</p> <p>“We knew if we were going to be able to have any more of our embryos we would have to use a gestational carrier,” he said.</p> <p>Enter: Jeff's mum Nancy. </p> <p>The 56-year-old grandmother stepped up and offered to carry the couple's last embryo, as she became pregnant with her own granddaughter after several appointments with a fertility specialist and a complicated embryo transfer.</p> <p>“Bringing another strong baby girl to our family, it’s just really special,” she said.</p> <p>Despite not being pregnant in 26 years, Nancy said the pregnancy is going well and her body is handling the symptoms with ease. </p> <p>“I am feeling great, surprisingly, and just like I did when I was younger and expecting,” she said.</p> <p>The couple said the experience of getting their daughter here has been an incredible journey, and are eternally grateful to Nancy for her selflessness in carrying their child. </p> <p>“It’s been so incredible to be part of this experience with her. I am eternally grateful,” Cambria said.</p> <p>Just a couple of days after the embryo transfer, Nancy said she woke up in the middle of the night and heard a sweet voice clearly say, “Hi, my name is Hannah.”</p> <p>Because of that experience, the couple has decided to name their daughter Hannah.</p> <p>“Hannah means favour or grace which sums up the whole experience perfectly in every definition of the words! Nancy is doing this eternal ‘favour’ for our family. The way it all came to be has been through the grace of God,” Cambria said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: NBC</em></p>

Family & Pets

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From cancer diagnosis to a shoulder to lean on: One volunteer shares her story

<p dir="ltr">Sharon Dreise was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016 at the age of 58, when she finally got a mammogram following years of putting off breast screens.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having been successfully treated, Sharon now volunteers with the Cancer Council’s <a href="https://www.cancer.org.au/support-and-services/support-groups/cancer-connect" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cancer Connect</a> program - an anonymous, confidential telephone peer support service for people diagnosed with localised cancer and those experiencing survivorship issues.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When I first heard of Cancer Connect, I thought it sounded like a fabulous service, now it is one of the most rewarding things I do with Cancer Council,” Sharon says.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It is a great way for people to share their own personal experiences with someone who understands. It gives people the freedom to react how they want to react with no judgement.”</p> <p dir="ltr">With her own experiences with cancer, Sharon speaks to people from when they are first diagnosed to their last days of treatment and helps them learn what to expect.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When you are told you have cancer, your whole world changes, so to be able to provide comfort and understanding to people is so rewarding,” she says.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When I first speak to someone at the beginning of their cancer experience, they are so worried and concerned. There is a big difference to our last call when they seem so happy and thankful, it gives you the warm and fuzzies.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Diagnosis of cancer can be a lonely experience, but Sharon says that volunteering with Cancer Council in programs like Cancer Connect can help provide support for those who need it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If I can help them, even just to listen to them, which is often the case, they often say they feel so much better,” she says.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>If you or anyone you know is affected by cancer and in need of support, call Cancer Council’s Information and Support Service on 13 11 20.</em></p> <p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-7f4afc5f-7fff-c8b2-f12a-af1bcc827744"></span></em></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Caring

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For the love of Greys – retiree volunteers and retired ex-racers

<p>It’s an unexpected match made in heaven, but retirees hoping to give their time to a good cause could find one in a four-legged friend looking for a home.</p> <p>With National Volunteer Week (16 – 22 May 2022) soon upon us, it’s timely to recognise all volunteers. But there’s a very special group of retirees who go the extra mile for Greyhounds.</p> <p>Contrary to popular belief, Greyhounds are big goofy sooks and will swamp you with adoration and love. They’ll also adopt a place on your couch or bed as a loyal pet. This is why many volunteers and foster carers not only adopt a grey or two, but also actively want to save them from greyhound racing.</p> <p>Not surprisingly, the RSPCA <a href="https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-are-the-animal-welfare-issues-with-greyhound-racing/#what-needs-to-change" target="_blank" rel="noopener">does not support greyhound racing</a> due to the many unresolved animal welfare concerns associated with the so-called sport. These concerns motivate rescue groups, as well as activists.</p> <p>CPG (the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds) is a dedicated group of volunteers across Australia who work together to inform the public about the cruelties of dog racing – <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CoalitionForTheProtectionOfGreyhounds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FB</a>,<a href="http://www.greyhoundcoalition.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a><a href="http://www.greyhoundcoalition.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">web</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/coalitionprotectgreyhounds/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/coalitionprotectgreyhounds/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Insta</a>,<a href="http://www.greyhoundcoalition.com/cpg-in-the-media" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a><a href="http://www.greyhoundcoalition.com/cpg-in-the-media" target="_blank" rel="noopener">media coverage</a></p> <p>Retired nurse Annie is one of CPG’s amazingly enthusiastic volunteers. She’s a media spokesperson for the group and is often busy doing radio and newspaper interviews. Her love affair with Greyhounds started long ago.</p> <p>“I saw an ad on Facebook by Gumtree Greys for foster carers, applied and was introduced to Holly. This beautiful black greyhound girl had been an Irish Champion and ‘Bitch of the year’ in 2012. She was bought by an Australian syndicate at two years old and kept to breed from,” said Annie.</p> <p>Holly whelped many litters until she was nine years old and had her last puppies by caesarean. When Annie took Holly to be desexed, the vet said she was a mess inside and had been sewn up with nylon non-dissolving sutures.</p> <p>“Holly taught me all about how gentle, quirky, dorky, loving and unintentionally hilarious greyhounds are, like the way their jaws quiver when they are happy. All of my future foster greyhounds learnt how to become great pets with guidance from gorgeous Holly,” said Annie.</p> <p>“I foster greyhounds because they deserve the chance of a good life as a dog and pet, not just a product or commodity. Greyhounds bring me so much joy. In return, I speak out for them because of what they suffer on Australia’s many racing tracks.”</p> <p>Annie says she’s appalled by the fact that in 2021, there were <a href="https://greyhoundcoalition.com/2021-australian-track-deaths-and-injuries/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">212 greyhound deaths</a> on Australian dog tracks and over 10,000 injuries, according to statistics from official stewards’ reports. Because of this, she volunteers for CPG and other greyhound-related voluntary bodies. She’s also a motorbike enthusiast and uses her motorbike riding to raise money for greyhound welfare.</p> <p>Alicia – one of CPG’s newest volunteers – is semi-retired. She works part-time in journalism and interior design, but adores Greyhounds. Her male black Greyhound, Fluffy, is now nearly seven years old and has been retired from racing for four years.</p> <p>“Fluffy is one of the lucky survivors from the greyhound racing tracks, as he only won one race and is loving his retired life on the couch! He’s a soppy sook despite his size and the name suits him down to the ground as he is not an Anubis or Nero by nature,” said Alicia.</p> <p>“My lovely boy is very nervous due to his past racing days. He’s frightened of loud noises such as cars or motorbikes, as well as thunder and lightning. He absolutely loves children and babies, as he instinctively knows they won’t harm him.”</p> <p>She says greyhounds are ideal companions for retirees as they are lazy couch potatoes, love cuddles, are very affectionate and generally don’t need more than one walk of 20 minutes a day.</p> <p>“I volunteer with CPG by writing content for publication. They really need more people who have at least five years’ experience writing news releases and placing them with media outlets. Greyhounds are innocents with no voice, so we speak up for them,” said Alicia.</p> <p>She said CPG’s <a href="https://greyhoundcoalition.com/5-key-demands/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">five-point plan</a> is aimed at reforming the racing industry. As well as increased penalties for mistreatment, the plan includes tracking each dog from birth to death so they don’t ‘disappear’, reduced breeding, sanctuaries and safer tracks.</p> <p>Fran, previously a lecturer in Environmental Science, is spokesperson and leader of the Tasmanian activist group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Let-Greyhounds-Run-Free-425546354301519/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Let Greyhounds Run Free</a> (LGRF), which formed as a result of the ABC's Four Corners program on live baiting and the subsequent Parliamentary Inquiry into the Tasmanian Greyhound Industry. LGRF has held several rallies against greyhound racing, and continues to lobby for the end of this cruel, archaic industry. </p> <p>Fran began her greyhound journey back in 2000 when she came across a Greyhound Adoption stall at a local event. She was instantly hooked after meeting a few of these four-legged beauties and adopted the timid and scared Miss Ruby. It was Ruby who introduced Fran to the dark life of a racing greyhound. </p> <p>Ruby was soon joined by regal Jena. Ruby was terrified, and Jena was injured and a severe epileptic - why we may never know, and it was then that Fran vowed she would do whatever she could to end greyhound racing.</p> <p>All these years later, having had the joy of six hounds and several more foster hounds, she now has the privilege of living with Paddy and Jennifer Jane.</p> <p>Paddy became well known in promotions for Let Greyhounds Run Free's rallies. He is also a champion at helping timid and shy foster greyhounds come back to life after their traumas, and adjust to life as it should be, in a safe and loving home. </p> <p>“I have stories about all the beauties who have blessed my life. They are the most gentle, loving, soul-filled, quirky beings and I'm so very grateful I met ‘Miss Ruby Two Shoes’ way back then in 2000” says Fran. </p> <p>Meanwhile, retired lawyer Jeff is also a tireless campaigner, volunteer and lover of greyhounds. He’s been a supporter of the worldwide campaign to end greyhound racing for the last 15 years or so.</p> <p>“When my pet greyhound died in 2015, I promised myself to continue fighting for the cause. That was the year when the live baiting scandal broke in Australia,” he said.</p> <p>“I followed the news reports and the inquiries closely. When an opportunity arose to become an admin at the new Facebook group ‘<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1376102522706650/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ban Greyhound Racing – Australia Wide</a>’, it was an ideal way to support the growing anti-racing campaign.”</p> <p>Jeff said the group’s focus has always been on activism.</p> <p>“There are many other social media outlets where people can share pictures of their rescued greyhounds and discuss their care, behaviour and feeding. On our page, we try to be a resource for current information about the Australian racing industry.”</p> <p>Those interested in adopting or fostering a goofy hound, should contact one of the groups listed <a href="https://greyhoundcoalition.com/links-to-greyhound-rescue-groups/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>, while anyone interested in volunteering with CPG, can find out more <a href="https://greyhoundcoalition.com/volunteering-with-cpg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. For further information about greyhound welfare issues, see CPG’s hot topics listed <a href="https://greyhoundcoalition.com/media-resource/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 7.95pt; line-height: 12.6pt;"><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

Family & Pets

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“Every shift is memorable”: One Ronald McDonald volunteer’s experience

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For sick and injured children, Ronald McDonald Houses provide a place for families to find support when they need it most.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Trisha Crane, a mother of two, grandmother of three, and one of the charity’s longest-serving volunteers, started volunteering 26 years ago after responding to an ad in a local paper.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’ve always done volunteering and I saw something in the local paper for the (Ronald McDonald) house and decided to sign up,” Trisha told <em>OverSixty</em>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It seemed like a great idea as it was child-oriented and, as a school teacher, I liked that.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though she now helps out with data entry, Trisha has spent much of her time at Westmead’s House and interacted closely with the families staying there.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s very obvious the difference having family close by has for a sick child,” she said. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Families also benefit from talking with people who can relate to the challenges they’re facing.”</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVzImrQl6as/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVzImrQl6as/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by RMHC Australia (@rmhcaustralia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When asked about whether she had a memorable moment during her time as a volunteer, she said: “I don’t have a specific memory but every shift is memorable as I enjoy working with the other volunteers and staff.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">McHappy Day, the fundraiser that supports the Ronald McDonald Houses, directs 100 percent of its funds towards the charity.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the 30th McHappy Day fast approaching, McDonald’s has launched a new range of silly socks that people can purchase to support the cause.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">who’s ready to do good, feel good &amp; look good in these bad boys? <a href="https://t.co/qNSMQxXteX">pic.twitter.com/qNSMQxXteX</a></p> — McDonald's Australia (@maccas) <a href="https://twitter.com/maccas/status/1450597636910850048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“McHappy Day is crucial to enabling us to continue to help seriously ill and injured children and their families across Australia,” Trisha said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Funds raised by McDonald’s and its customers through the purchase of Silly Socks supports programs such as Ronald McDonald Houses, Family Rooms, Family Retreats and our National Learning Program, which make a real impact in the lives of families and children in their time of need.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For those considering volunteering their time, Trisha said to take the plunge.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Just come and give volunteering a go!”</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p>

Mind

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Coronavirus vaccine trial volunteer reveals potential side effects

<p>A British man taking part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial has revealed the potential side effects of the shot.</p> <p>Simeon Courtie, a writer and former children’s TV presenter, is one of the hundreds of people taking part in Europe’s first human trial run by the Jenner Institute and the Oxford Vaccine Group.</p> <p>According to Oxford, the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine is a weakened version of a common cold virus that causes infections in chimpanzees.</p> <p>Speaking on <em>Good Morning Britain</em> on Thursday, Courtie said he was told the side effects would be “something along the lines of having flu”, and the severity would vary.</p> <p>“I think at worst maybe a fever for a couple of days and some aches and pains,” he said.</p> <p>“It shouldn’t be too disruptive to my life.”</p> <p>Courtie said he will have his first dose next Wednesday.</p> <p>“We are the safety part of this process to see if it’s safe, and after my trial there will be an efficacy trial in the community to see if it works on thousands of people.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Very happy to be invited onto <a href="https://twitter.com/GMB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GMB</a> with <a href="https://twitter.com/susannareid100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@susannareid100</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@piersmorgan</a> today to talk about volunteering on the Oxford Vaccine Trial which starts today. Good luck to the amazing scientists at <a href="https://twitter.com/JennerInstitute?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JennerInstitute</a> 💉 <a href="https://t.co/hfZJ14rX0B">pic.twitter.com/hfZJ14rX0B</a></p> — Simeon Courtie (@simcourtie) <a href="https://twitter.com/simcourtie/status/1253223736712585217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>Courtie is one of the more than 800 people recruited for the study, which began on Thursday.</p> <p>Half of the participants will receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and the rest a control vaccine which protects against meningitis but not the coronavirus.</p> <p>Two people have been injected with the vaccine, which was developed in under three months at Oxford University.</p> <p>Elisa Granato is one of the two volunteers who received the jab.</p> <p>“Personally I have a high degree of confidence in this vaccine,” Granato told the <em><a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/health-52394485">BBC</a></em>.</p> <p>“Of course, we have to test it and get data from humans. We have to demonstrate it actually works and stops people getting infected with coronavirus before using the vaccine in the wider population.”</p> <p>Sarah Gilbert, professor of vaccinology at the Jenner Institute and the leader of the pre-clinical research, said she was “very optimistic” the vaccine would work.</p>

Caring

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Volunteering: How it holds the key to self-fulfilment

<p>If someone had asked you to do a days work for no pay a few years ago, you probably would have laughed it off. <br /><br />But did you know that more than six million people or 36% of Australians aged over 18 take part in voluntary work each year?<br /><br />Even though there may not be the usual financial gain at the finish line, volunteering is the perfect way to self-improvement. People report greater levels of satisfaction and fulfilment.<br /><br />66-year old Matilda Di Certi is semi-retired and regularly volunteers.<br /><br />“My enjoyment in volunteering began with the Sydney 2000 Olympics. I had just cut back from full-time to part-time work and I had heard about a friend of mine who was volunteering at the Olympics. I signed up and just got so much personal satisfaction from helping out with one of the biggest events our nation has seen,” she said.<br /><br />She continues to volunteer at major national sport and arts events whenever she can.<br /><br />“Volunteering keeps my mind and body active and makes me feel like I’m part of something much bigger,” she added.<br /><br />Statistics also show that more women than men volunteer and the group with the highest rates of volunteering is aged between 45 and 54.<br /><br />Sport and physical recreation organisations are the most common type that people volunteer for while others include:<br /><br />• Community/welfare<br />• Religious groups<br />• Parenting, children and youth<br /><br /><strong>How to get started volunteering<br /></strong><br />If you’ve thought about volunteering, but don’t know where to start visit <a href="http://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/">volunteeringaustralia.org</a> as a first port of call.</p> <p>Another way to get onto the volunteering path is to ask yourself what you are passionate about. Are there any causes close to your heart that you never had the time for? What skills could you contribute? Speak to peers and family. They might be able to give you some inspiration or direction.<br /><br />Volunteering can be what you make of it. You can give your time to large-scale organisations and events like museums, charities and concerts or smaller local events and organisations such as fairs, schools, councils and churches. <br />Always remember to do what suits you. Before you sign up, ask yourself how much time you want to devote and don’t over-commit yourself if you are unsure and haven’t volunteered before.</p> <p>Below are some charitable organisations you might want to approach for volunteering:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.rspcansw.org.au/">rspcansw.org.au</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/">thesmithfamily.com.au</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.acas.org.au/">acas.org.au</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.redcross.org.au/">redcross.org.au</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.projects-abroad.com.au/">projects-abroad.com.au</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.missionaustralia.com.au/">missionaustralia.com.au</a></li> </ul> <p><em>Written by Danielle Cesta. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/work/employment/volunteering-holds-the-key-to-self-fulfillment.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Legal

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"Every person has a story”: Hospice volunteer writes life stories for patients

<p>Kaitaia woman Lois Strong is providing Hospice patients with an invaluable gift - a book on their life.</p> <p>She has written nearly 10 books so far, recording stories, detailing life events, and compiling photos into a book which is given for free.</p> <p>"Every person has a story," Strong says. "I try to keep the written record just the same as I hear it, so when their family reads the story they can hear their loved one."</p> <p>Typing up a Hokianga man's manuscript in the 70s prompted Strong to give her parents Pat and Ivan a tape recorder to share their stories. </p> <p>"To them it was just life but to us kids it was our history," Strong says. "I can remember Dad's face when he saw it, he cried lots reading it."</p> <p>When her mother was unwell, Hospice supported the family and in 2011 Strong began volunteering. </p> <p>A school friend suggested training for Life Review writers and from there Strong's work began. A brochure outlining the service is given to new families who receive support. </p> <p>Strong sits with the person for around two hours at a time while the final book usually takes several months to complete.</p> <p>"I love it; I've been retired since 2005 and now I wouldn't have time to go to work. I know families really appreciate what I do but I know I get just as much personal satisfaction in being able to do this for them," Strong says.</p> <p>Strong has developed a timeline that helps to jog people's memories.</p> <p>"I start them off with when and where they were born, who their parents were, then they just go from there."</p> <p>Strong encourages every family to make sure their older generation's stories are recorded. </p> <p>"Even if you record them and type them up later, at least have the stories.</p> <p>"You be the one who says, 'Come on, Grandad tell me a story, I'm ready to listen', not the one who says I wish I had written Granddad's stories down.</p> <p>"There is no time like the present. Time has a way of beating us to the end."</p> <p><em>Written by Bayley Moor. Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>. Image credit: Bayley Moor/Stuff.</em></p>

Caring

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My life-changing experience volunteering in Africa

<p><em><strong>Pat Munro, 68, originally trained as an enrolled nurse when she was just 16. She joined the Royal NZ Nursing Corp at 19 and met her husband in the army. She moved to Auckland in 1986 when she commenced work at Greenlane Hospital and soon found herself in the operating rooms where she has been ever since.</strong></em></p> <p>Using my operating theatre skills to provide essential surgery for Africa’s poorest people was something I first heard about through a work colleague. She had volunteered on board the Mercy Ship a couple of times and was deeply impacted by the experience. At this stage of my life and career it felt like the right time to ‘give something back’, and working on a hospital ship sounded like something I would enjoy.</p> <p>Mercy Ships spends 10 months at a time in a West African nation, using the 16,000 tonne vessel <em>Africa Mercy</em> as a platform to provide free surgery and associated healthcare services. In addition to six surgical specialities offered the crew work to achieve the best outcomes by mentoring local health professionals, and strengthening the infrastructure they will leave behind.</p> <p>After a rigorous application process, an arm full of shots and too many hours on planes, I arrived into Benin, West Africa in March for a six-week tour-of-duty as an operating theatre nurse.</p> <p>The size and pace of the hospital ship was a surprise. The <em>Africa Mercy</em> has volunteer crew of 480 in medical, maritime and operational areas, from around 40 different countries. About 200 local people are employed mainly as translators. Thankfully there is always a bunch of Kiwis on board, and we got together every few weeks for a meal and a catch up on news from home.</p> <p>One of the things I enjoyed the most on board and in the theatre particularly, was the camaraderie. Everyone is there for the same purpose, and on the same ‘salary’ - which is nothing! Everyone just cooperates and gets on with the job.</p> <p>My time on board made such an impact that only three months after I got home, I was surprised to find myself on the way back to the hospital ship - this time to Cameroon. Another theatre nurse had cancelled their service, so at the last minute l stepped into their shoes, and bunk, for another eight weeks.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="380" height="570" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7264944/1.jpg" alt="1 (51)"/></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>Pat volunteered with Mercy Ships for six- weeks in Benin, West Africa and eight weeks in Cameroon</em></p> <p>As I arrived at the beginning of the Cameroon field service this time, we were preparing the operating theatres for surgery after the sail down, and the admissions clinics were just beginning. This allowed me the opportunity to go down to the dock while our patients were being screened by the surgeons. It is one thing to see images in the media, but to actually see the severity of people’s problems, and to be face-to-face with the extreme medical conditions they suffered was heart-breaking.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="333" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7264943/2_500x333.jpg" alt="2 (36)"/></p> <p style="text-align: center;" align="center"><em>Pat worked in the operating theatres providing free surgery for people in extreme poverty</em></p> <p>For the first three weeks in Cameroon I worked in the Women’s Health operating theatre.  We did surgical repairs for women who had suffered from obstructed labour. Because there is no access to even basic health care, in these cases not only does the baby usually die, but the mother endures a painful rupture called an obstetric fistula, which leaves her permanently incontinent. As a result she is often rejected and shamed even by her family because of her odour. Sadly, this is a common occurrence in developing nations.</p> <p>I remember one lady in particular. We finished her surgery and were about to transfer her to bed in the ship’s ward. She grabbed my hand and, through the interpreter, profusely thanked us for what we had done. She had lived with this problem for a decade, and was just so overjoyed to finally be cured. There was not a dry eye in the theatre. It was just so heartfelt and moving.</p> <p>After the women have recovered from fistula surgery, the chaplaincy team on board has a special ‘dress ceremony’ for them. Many of them had no clean clothes, so Mercy Ships gifted them a new African outfit to go home in. The new clothing symbolises a new beginning as they returned to their families. I was able to attend one ceremony, and it was amazing to see our patients all dressed up in colourful outfits and matching headdresses for the occasion. There was lots of singing and dancing of course, and the women all shared about how long they had been suffering before they were offered free surgery on the ship. Some of the stories were tragic, but seeing their faces radiant because of their healing was very emotional. I am so glad I was able to participate; it was one of the highlights of my time in Africa.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7264942/4_500x334.jpg" alt="4 (13)"/></p> <p style="text-align: center;" align="center"><em>The Mercy Ships crew create a special celebration with new outfits for the women healed of obstetric fistula</em></p> <p>Don’t get me wrong, there were plenty of fun times too. A group of us would go into town during our time off, and we discovered Maison H – the most amazing patisserie and ice creamery you have ever seen. This necessitated getting up early on Friday mornings for an exercise class! On a Saturday I’d often go into the local craft market to spend hours browsing the incredible array of vibrant fabrics, visit local areas of interest, or go out for indigenous cuisine with some of our operating theatre translators.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="391" height="587" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7264941/3.jpg" alt="3 (21)"/></p> <p style="text-align: center;" align="center"><em>Getting to know some of her patients outside of theatre was an extraordinary experience</em></p> <p>I always knew that I was privileged to have the life I have now, but I think I worry less about the little things that often bother us in the western world. I think my time on board the Mercy Ships has made me much more tolerant and understanding. Would I go again? In a heart-beat!</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">About Mercy Ships </span></strong></p> <p>Mercy Ships is a faith-inspired charity which delivers free, world-class healthcare services, capacity-building and sustainable development aid to those without access in the developing world. Founded in 1978, Mercy Ships has performed more than 84,477 life-changing or life-saving operations such as cleft lip and palate repairs, cataract removal, orthopaedic procedures, facial reconstruction and obstetric fistula repairs. Services valued at more than NZ$1.25 billion have directly benefitted more than 2.56 million people in 70 nations. Each year, around 1,000 volunteers from up to 40 nations, including New Zealand, serve with Mercy Ships. Professionals like surgeons, dentists, nurses, healthcare trainers, teachers, cooks, seamen, engineers and teachers donate their time and skills to the effort.  Mercy Ships New Zealand, one of 16 international support offices, is based in Auckland. For more information <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.mercyships.org.nz/" target="_blank">click here.</a></strong></span>  </p> <p><strong>Help make mercy happen this Christmas. Donate your season gift <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://mercyships.org.nz/donations/" target="_blank">here</a></span>. </strong></p>

Retirement Life

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Experiencing the real Hawaii: Volunteering at 71 with my grandson

<p><em><strong>Russell Livingston, 71, recently went on an <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.volunteerhq.org/au/" target="_blank">International Volunteer HQ</a></span> trip to Hawaii with his 17-year-old grandson.</strong></em></p> <p>The IVHQ Hawaii volunteer program in which my grandson (age 17) and I (age 71) participated on is truly a rare gem! I’ve volunteered on seven fabulous IVHQ programs, and I can say that IVHQ and Sustainable Coastlines do an outstanding job.</p> <p>All IVHQ volunteer work across the world is meaningful and important, but on the Hawaii program you are immersed in Hawaiian history; you are helping re-create authentic ancient Hawaiian conditions, structures, and environments, and each day we were all amazed, and proud, at what we had accomplished! You work as the native people worked, do as they do and see what they saw. You learn so much about Hawaii and its history. It’s an incredible adventure.</p> <p>The local program coordinator, Katie, picked us up at the airport in the van, making arrival easy and stress-free. The volunteer house is at the base of gorgeous steep tall mountains, which, after rain, run with waterfalls ready to explore. Your room is in a large modern house with all the conveniences you are used to and in a lovely safe neighbourhood. Not to mention the rooms have real reds with comfortable mattresses and box springs! There are only 2 to 4 people in a room instead of the more common 8 to 10.</p> <p>Waking in the morning to the sweet sound of cooing doves, we drag ourselves out to the great room/kitchen to the sound of happy contemporary island music and Katie’s cheerful greetings and help ourselves to breakfasts of all sorts of cereals, bread, eggs, fruits, tea, coffee, etc.</p> <p>The first morning is orientation, by Katie, our leader, historian, driver, cheerleader, cook, guide, travel agent, a fellow labourer, and house mum. She is always available and is extraordinarily positive, hard-working, and helpful. We learned of the great Pacific gyre, a garbage swirl dumping millions of tons of plastic and trash on the beaches of the world and of the ghastly damage to fish, seabirds, turtles, and other sea life caused by plastic and trash.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="375" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/45906/image1_500x375.jpg" alt="Image1"/></p> <p>We all piled into the van and drove to a perfect tropical beach—littered with trash. A few hours of sifting sand and cleaning the beach (with an hour’s break for body surfing and swimming) gave us hundreds of pounds of icky stuff, which we hauled back to the van. It’s great exercise, this program keeps you fit! Then off to a recycling station, the nearby supermarket to get food for dinner, and home to shower.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="375" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/45905/image6_500x375.jpg" alt="Image6"/></p> <p>The indigenous people of Oahu lived in 28 separate areas called ahupua’a, each extending from the top of the highest mountains where the most rain fell, down through the tropical rainforest, then through broad green valleys watered by streams and springs, continuing to the flatter wetlands, and finally to the ancient rock-walled fish ponds and the sea.</p> <p>You work in each of these sections of one of these ahupua’a, called He’eia Ahupua’a, in the long exhausting quest to restore it to its original condition. It is one of the only ahupua’a to have avoided urbanization and destruction, highlighting what a unique mission you are participating in.</p> <p>At the highest elevation, up a steep and rugged path through the lush jungle at the headwaters, we worked building a trail to restore access to the various parts of the mountain - more great exercise! After climbing back down you can refresh yourself with a cold drink from a pure spring flowing from the rock. The mountain is Mauna O’loleka’a (Tumbling Rat Mountain), which I demonstrated to be aptly named by taking an accidental flying dive and skid—good sympathy points! The non-profit organization responsible, Papahana Kuaola, also operates an organic native plant nursery and seed bank.</p> <p>Finishing the day’s work around 1:00 PM, as we did each day, we were presented, courtesy of Katie, with a luau of authentic Hawaiian foods—delicious! Great leftovers too! Lunch is provided daily and is really excellent. Katie may pick up and bring it to us, we might eat at a restaurant, and once we packed our own lunches of sandwiches, fruit, snacks, etc.</p> <p>Each evening Katie lets you know where you will be and what you will do the next days on the project so you can make plans for the afternoon. You can go fishing, kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, surfing, bagging rays at the beach, sight-seeing, shopping all over the island, swimming and snorkelling with sharks, hiking trails, walking jungle streams, hitting Waikiki and Honolulu: anything you can think of. Katie helps you plan so she can take you where you want to go, or you can always catch a bus or call Uber or Lyft.</p> <p>One day a week, work is at Kako’o Owii, an organic farm with stunning views of mountains and green valleys. The farm and the original wetlands of the area are part of the restoration project. Native crops are grown, and taro, or kalo, used in making poi, is primary. After an interesting educational lesson, you may spend a truly unique morning thigh-deep in a taro patch, cutting and pulling up the large plants by the root. You may then “stomp” a taro patch, your legs will be covered in marvellous muck as you use your feet (and hands) to submerge weeds. Don’t worry there are showers. It’s more great exercise!</p> <p>At the huge Paepae O He’eia fishpond, learning the fascinating history and operation of the pond, you then help to recreate the original conditions: hauling and burning cut mangrove branches, working with school kids carrying rocks, building rock walls by hand—REALLY great exercise!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="375" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/45904/image5_500x375.jpg" alt="Image5"/></p> <p>There is so much more I could say about this remarkable Hawaii program! It is perfect for one’s first trip (or last); during my trip there were 10 first timers aged 17 through 20, including my grandson, plus my ancient self on my 7th IVHQ volunteer trip, and we all had a truly wondrous adventure that none of us will ever forget.</p> <p>After our return, my daughter said, of my grandson, “You went to Hawaii a boy, and you came back a man.”</p> <p>Dude!</p>

Retirement Life

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5 amazing benefits of volunteering in retirement

<p><em><strong>Bernardine Reid is responsible for volunteer training and volunteer management for Samaritans Wellington. She has been a volunteer for Samaritans for over 20 years since retiring from full time work as a careers counsellor.</strong></em></p> <p>It’s easy to see the positive impact that volunteers have on others, but we don’t often consider how rewarding it can be for the volunteer themselves to reach out and make a difference in someone’s life.  Here are five ways volunteering can benefit seniors or retirees:</p> <p><strong>1. Stay active and engaged with life</strong></p> <p>Health care professionals have always suspected that loneliness in seniors can cause health problems beyond depression. A review of recent research proves just how right they are.  We now know <strong><a href="https://www.nationalservice.gov/pdf/07_0506_hbr.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">social isolation increases a senior’s risk</span></a></strong> for a variety of serious health problems ranging from obesity and high blood pressure to diabetes. </p> <p>The good news is there are many ways older adults can stay active and engaged with life. One of them is by volunteering their time and talent to a cause they believe it. Besides being a lot of fun, volunteering has a positive impact on the mind, body and spirit.</p> <p><strong>2. Helping others makes you feel happy</strong></p> <p>According to a study from Merrill Lynch, some 70 percent of retirees say being generous provides a significant <strong><a href="http://agewave.com/what-we-do/landmark-research-and-consulting/research-studies/giving-in-retirement-americas-longevity-bonus/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">source of happiness.</span></a></strong> Most volunteers report that helping others brings them more happiness than spending money on themselves. Retirees who are active in charities also have a stronger sense of purpose and higher self-esteem. They have lower rates of depression as well as lower blood pressure and lower mortality rates.</p> <p><strong>3. Make new social connections</strong></p> <p>Another reason retirees volunteer is for the social interaction. After people stop working and their kids are gone, they lose many of the usual social connections. Volunteering helps retirees meet people with similar interests and values. Some 85 percent of retiree volunteers say they have <strong><a href="http://agewave.com/what-we-do/landmark-research-and-consulting/research-studies/giving-in-retirement-americas-longevity-bonus/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">developed new friendships</span></a></strong> through their volunteer activities the Merrill Lynch study found.</p> <p><strong>4. Have new experiences and learn new skills</strong></p> <p>Volunteering may provide you with opportunities and experiences you may not otherwise encounter. Step out and experience life – whether you decide to utilise your existing gardening skills to support a local conservation project, help out at a fundraising event for your favourite charity, or support those going through difficult times by answering calls to a helpline – you will have new experiences, meet new people and even learn new skills.</p> <p><strong>5. Change someone’s life – change your own</strong></p> <p>Volunteering provides the chance to look beyond our own circumstances and appreciate what others are experiencing. You can have a positive influence in someone’s life. The simple act of visiting someone, holding someone’s hand or offering a listening ear may seem like a small thing, but is actually quite powerful because that simple act of caring brings them immeasurable comfort, joy and encouragement. The difference that you’ll make in someone else’s life will make an even bigger difference in yours. </p>

Retirement Life

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Volunteering as a dog handler in Alaskan Iditarod race

<p>For Christchurch woman Libby Harrop, Alaska has become her second home.</p> <p>She has just returned from Alaska where she volunteered at this year's Iditarod, "the last great race on Earth".</p> <p>For the last two years, she has travelled to the icy American state to be a dog handler in the world famous sled trail race.</p> <p>"It never crossed my mind that little old me would go to the Iditarod," she said.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/37672/dog-sled-in-text_497x280.jpg" alt="Dog Sled In Text"/></p> <p align="center"><em>Christchurch woman Libby Harrop with Norwegian dog sled rider Joar Ulsom, wearing Harrop's Delphi Lavender logo.</em></p> <p>She first visited Alaska in 2013 and said the highlight of the trip was visiting a dog shelter and learning about the dog sledding huskies.</p> <p>"I realised then I had some hankering to do this," she said.</p> <p>"I've always liked the cold, the north, the Antarctic, exploring, the wild… I thought, 'Let's actually do something about it. Don't just sit and dream, what a waste of time'."</p> <p>Harrop's interest in sled races began when she read about the 1925 serum run to Nome as a child, in which a dog sled relay transporting medication across Alaska saved the town of Nome from an epidemic.</p> <p>"I read about it in the '50s and it peaked my interest, and I've been interested ever since."</p> <p>Researching Iditarod online, she became a sponsor for one of the riders, tracking the 2015 race from New Zealand.</p> <p>The following year Harrop went to Alaska as part of a tour group where she became a dog handler in the Iditarod race for Norwegian riders rider Ralph Johannessen​ last year and Joar Ulsom​ this year.</p> <p>Harrop said dog sledding was "like the All Blacks" in Alaska.</p> <p>Held in March each year, thousands gather for Iditarod in which riders and their 16 dogs traverse 1700 kilometres across white Alaska, taking around eight to 12 days to complete.</p> <p>Support crews, including Harrop, flew to the mandatory stops for the riders and their dogs, which were small villages on the trail, some with populations as small as 10.</p> <p>This year, of the 76 racers hitting the snow, Ulsum came fourth, completing the trail in just under eight-and-a-half days.</p> <p>As a dog handler, Harrop's main job was to keep the dogs – including beautiful Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes – calm while they lined up to start the race.</p> <p>Harrop said the friendly Alaskan people and their "snow from seashore to seashore" wilderness was "incredible".</p> <p>"It's so different here from in New Zealand.</p> <p>"You have no idea what -45 [degrees Celsius] is like … it is so cold, it's unbelievable, but so invigorating."</p> <p>Each trip was "not a cheap expedition", costing around $25,000 all up, but she said it was worth it.</p> <p>She said mushing in the white wilderness and playing golf on the frozen-over Bering Sea were life-changing experiences.</p> <p>At home in Christchurch, Harrop owns Delphi, a lavender oil product line. She is a regular at the Riccarton Farmer's Market, which is now an official sponsor of her favourite rider and friend Ulsom, who uses a Delphi lavender product as massage oil for his dogs.</p> <p>​"I didn't think I realised what I could do and how much I really enjoyed doing this sort of thing.</p> <p>"Honestly, I'm getting on, I can't do it forever, I'll keep doing it 'til I can't do it anymore.</p> <p>"I've already booked the next year," she said.​</p> <p><em>Written by Monique Steele. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>.</em></p>

Retirement Life

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5 reasons to consider volunteering abroad

<p>As compelling as those Bold and the Beautiful reruns are, there comes a time where you have to ask yourself, “Is this really what I imagined my retirement to look like?” An increasing number of people are using the extra time they gain in retirement as an opportunity to give back to the world. We’ve taken a look at the reasons why you should consider volunteering overseas in retirement.</p> <p>Judith Brodie, Voluntary Service Overseas UK director, told The Guardian, “The needs of the developing countries we are working in have changed over the 50 years since we started. They now require volunteers that have got more experience and higher levels of professional skills and that's then reflected in the age and experience that we seek in the volunteers that we recruit. This has coincided with an increase in the number of retirees that don't want to put their feet up ... when they retire and are looking for something quite different as they approach retirement.”</p> <p><strong>1. Experience a different culture</strong></p> <p>There’s nothing like getting out of your comfort zone and experiencing a new culture. Volunteering lets you get in from the ground floor and experience a different culture by actually living in it. If you’re looking for an authentic way to experience part of the world you can’t do much better.</p> <p><strong>2. Meet likeminded new people</strong></p> <p>One of the hardest things to do as you start to get older is meet new people, which is a shame because there are a lot of people out there and you owe it to yourself to meet as many of them as possible. Joining volunteering programs will have you on the front lines with such people.</p> <p><strong>3. Get out of your comfort zone</strong></p> <p>There’s nothing about “Bold and the Beautiful” re-runs that is getting you out of your comfort zone, and there’s never been a better time than retirement to be actively performing pursuits that improve yourself. Get out of your comfort zone with an international volunteering program.</p> <p><strong>4. Help different parts of the world</strong></p> <p>The reason a lot of these volunteering programs exist is because they have to. Unfortunately many parts of the world remain impoverished and in urgent need of assistance. By joining one of these programs you can make an active difference in the lives of those who need it most.</p> <p><strong>5. A different type of travel experience</strong></p> <p>The experience you get out of volunteering overseas is completely different to any other type of travel experience you can think of. And while it may not be as luxurious as other types of travel experiences, you will definitely end your trip with a sense of fulfilment and achievement.</p> <p><strong>Related Links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/finance/retirement-income/2015/09/how-to-make-money-after-retirement/">3 great ways to make money after you retire</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/finance/retirement-income/2015/09/calculate-money-for-retirement/">How to calculate the bank balance you’ll need to retire</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/finance/retirement-income/2015/10/what-is-life-cycle-super/">What is a life-cycle super product? And do you need one?</a></strong></em></span></p> <p> </p>

Retirement Income

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Volunteers are helping to change lives of refugees and migrants in NZ

<p>Although Sandy Fraser migrated to New Zealand from South Africa almost 23 years ago, she still remembers the challenges in settling into a new home.</p> <p>“I have an understanding of the difficulties that we encountered when we moved here, bearing in mind it was much much easier for us because we've grown up with the same sort of social background,” she recalls.</p> <p>With that memory in the back of her mind, Sandy could only imagine the types of difficulties and challenges faced by refugees and new migrants arriving in New Zealand who have very little English experience.</p> <p>She’d heard from close friends about their rewarding experiences teaching English and with some extra time on her hands and a strong desire to give back to her country, Sandy looked at volunteering at <a href="http://www.englishlanguage.org.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>English Language Partners</strong></span></a>, New Zealand’s largest organisation working with refugees and migrants.</p> <p>“I wanted to do something for people who've had it much tougher than my family did when we came to New Zealand,” Sandy tells Over60.</p> <p>English Language Partners’ mission to help refugees and migrants learn English so they can pursue their aspirations and participate in all aspects of life in Aotearoa New Zealand struck a chord with Sandy.</p> <p>Sandy was paired up with Sahriani, an Indonesian woman with two young boys, for home lessons over 12 weeks (lesson they’ve already renewed for another three months).</p> <p>Sahriani is quick to show off her new English skills, telling Over60, “I like study English but we need learn more, because my English no good.”</p> <p>But Sandy, who has affectionately nicknamed Sahriani “Ani”, quickly interjects, praising Ani’s eagerness to learn English and her steady improvements over the last three months.</p> <p>“Ani is very enthusiastic and very diligent. She does a lot of stuff on her own. I spend just over an hour with her on a weekly basis but she's very keen and does a lot on her own,” she says, adding, “I just hope she makes the sort of progress with me that she's expecting to make!”</p> <p>Asked about how she feels about improving her English, Ani replies, shyly but eagerly, “I feel good, I like it, I really like it. I think every week I get more confident.”</p> <p>After her lessons with Sandy, Ani does a lot of English-practising on her own, even getting as involved as she can in her seven-year-old son’s school reading.</p> <p>“Sometimes he [my son] helps me,” she chimes in.</p> <p>For Sandy, volunteering has been a wonderful and incredibly rewarding experience.</p> <p>“For me personally, I think it's easy for English-speaking people to settle in the country, because they don't sound any different – well accent excluded. You fit into the local scheme of things quite easily.</p> <p>For anybody who had no English, the society feels different, it's hard,” she says.</p> <p>“If I can make the slightest bit of different to helping Annie and her family feel settled in New Zealand, that's all I can really ask for. Because it's a brilliant country I am incredibly privileged to be living here and I want Ani to feel the same way.”</p> <p>Sandy not only relishes helping eager learners like Ani, but loves the chance to form friendships with our newest New Zealanders.</p> <p>“I find that I think about Ani a lot and I enjoy being with her and she has the most gorgeous little boy. He's a cutie pie. I just hope she's getting as much out of it as I am,” Sandy reveals.</p> <p>If you’re looking for a similar chance to change people’s lives, Sandy cannot speak highly enough of English Language Partners help and support.</p> <p>“English Language Partners are very thorough in their training and there's a lot of help and support from the office. If I have any doubts about what I am doing, they are always there and incredibly helpful,” says Sandy. “I am very pleased that there is that level of training and support.”</p> <p><em><strong>If you are interested in volunteering or finding more information about English Language Partners, visit their website; <a href="http://www.englishlanguage.org.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">www.englishlanguage.org.nz</span></a>. </strong></em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/retirement-life/2017/01/volunteering-on-a-floating-hospital-in-africa/"><em>Volunteering on a floating hospital in Africa</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/12/pat-simmons-three-goals-for-retirement/"><em>My three goals for retirement</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/12/daily-habit-can-add-years-to-your-life/"><em>The daily habit that can add years to your life</em></a></strong></span></p>

News

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How to become a volunteer tourist

<p><strong><em>Betsy Goldberg writes for <a href="http://blog.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Virtuoso Luxury Traveller</span></a>, the blog of a <a href="http://www.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">global luxury travel network</span></a>, and she enjoys nothing more than taking a holiday.</em></strong></p> <p>Have you ever thought about volunteering on vacation?  Teaching English, building a house, or cleaning up the environment?</p> <p>If so, you’re not alone. Volunteer tourism – or voluntourism – is growing in popularity. A 2008 study by Tourism and Research Marketing put the number of volunteer tourists at 1.6 million per year.</p> <p><strong>Why voluntourism?</strong></p> <p>“Folks are waking up to the fact that tourism is a massive industry with the ability to change landscapes, and thus how one travels matters,” explains Betty Jo Currie, a Virtuoso travel advisor in Atlanta, Georgia. “They don’t want their children to see their travel experiences as simply privilege. They want them to learn about the places they go, the people, and the ideas.”</p> <p><strong>One voluntourist’s experience</strong></p> <p>Pamela Lassers, with Virtuoso partner Abercrombie &amp; Kent, recalls a marketing communications executive who used her talents to benefit an organization supporting Mount Kilimanjaro porters. Porters ascend with climbers on expeditions, carrying gear and supplies.</p> <p>“The client asked us to find a volunteer project in Tanzania after a bike trip she was doing,” Lassers relates. “She helped the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project develop their website, write press releases, and find university partners to provide an ongoing source of PR interns.”</p> <p><strong>Where to go, what to do?</strong></p> <p>Sybil Ford, a Virtuoso travel advisor in New York City, says Kenya and Cambodia are two of the most popular voluntourism destinations. “Those places allow you to combine sightseeing you wouldn’t do on a regular vacation with the ability to help someone,” she notes. “Cambodia is popular with Vietnam war veterans, because Vietnam is not that far from Cambodia.”</p> <p>Ford finds clients are also interested in other African regions, particularly with water-related projects. “Something else I’ve seen tour groups incorporate is support for women’s groups,” she continues. “There’s a certified area with women who are supporting their families with the funds used to purchase their crafts. This is a safe environment where you can actually see the women working.”</p> <p>Through Abercrombie &amp; Kent trips, travellers can educate street children in Delhi or provide pillows and blankets to kids in Peru, for example. These programs encourage human connections, allowing clients to play soccer or attend classes with the children they help.</p> <p>“It makes me feel good when I do things like that,” confides Elaine Carey, a Virtuoso travel advisor in Raleigh, North Carolina, of a charitable orange-picking excursion she participated in on a cruise through Israel. “It sets something off deep inside me and makes me want to help even more.”</p> <p><strong>How to have a great voluntourism experience</strong></p> <ul> <li>Think about your skills/interests and ask your travel agent to find an experience that fits.</li> <li>Have an idea of the kind of project you want to do and how long you want to spend doing it.</li> <li>Often hotels, cruise lines and tour operators have partnerships with charitable organizations, including their own non-profit arms that improve the lives of people in the regions they serve. Your travel advisor can arrange an experience for you through them.</li> <li>Have realistic expectations. You’ll likely meet locals and gain a new perspective, but you won’t witness huge changes from a brief project.</li> </ul> <p>Have you ever volunteered on an overseas trip? How did you find the experience? Please share your story in the comments section below.</p> <p><em>First appeared on Virtuoso. <a href="http://www.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Click here</span></strong></a> to visit their website for more information.</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/03/teen-saves-flying-sheffield-to-essex-via-germany/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Teen saves money by flying from Sheffield to Essex via Germany</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/controversial-idea-to-shorten-airport-queues/"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Controversial idea to shorten airport queues</strong></span></em></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/5-ways-to-avoid-being-stuck-in-the-middle-seat/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>5 ways to avoid the middle seat on planes</strong></em></span></a></p>

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Meet the oldest Peace Corps volunteer

<p>87-year-old Alice Carter has broken the record for the US’ oldest Peace Corps volunteer. She was first inspired to join back in 1960 after then-President John F. Kennedy called for more young Americans to get involved.</p> <p>Since last year, Carter has been stationed in Rabat, Morocco. Prior to joining, she told <a href="http://www.npr.org/2016/02/13/466592640/peace-corps-volunteer-values-staying-active-in-old-age" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">NPR</span></strong></a> she was always interested in civil rights and the world in general. Carter was a staunch opponent of the Vietnam War and spent her time before the Peace Corps tutoring disadvantaged children and organising church dinners.</p> <p>Carter says her age is no barrier to staying both mentally and physically active. “You can't quit. I've been told that it's hard to make friends as you get older. I have not found that to be true,” she said.</p> <p>“I'm not here to be a world-beater or accomplish impossible tasks. I just want [people] to know that you can have a really good time in the Peace Corps when you're old,” she added.</p> <p>We think she has the right attitude! <a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2015/12/reasons-to-volunteer-in-retirement/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Click here</span></strong></a> to read our article on why you should consider using your free time to volunteer.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/05/105-year-old-volunteer-teacher/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">105-year-old proves volunteering has no age limit</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/05/76-year-old-volunteer-shares-wisdom-with-schoolkids/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">76-year-old volunteer shares wisdom with schoolkids</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/04/i-found-retirement-overrated/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Retirement is overrated. Here’s what I did instead.</span></em></strong></a></p>

Retirement Life

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Couple are seeking “volunteer grandparents” for their children

<p>A South Australian couple have placed a somewhat unorthodox “help wanted” ad in their local paper, seeking grandparents for their children. Yvonne De’Mille and husband Alexandre are looking for a volunteer grandma and grandpa for their kids (13, 1 and 6 months) who are sadly without any grandparents.</p> <p>“We don’t need a babysitter, it’s not about that,” the Rye woman told the <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/south-east/mornington-peninsula-family-seeks-volunteer-grandparents-for-their-kids/news-story/34fe3d5657f5e13abb5d91828aa04411#load-story-comments" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Mornington Peninsula Leader</span></strong></em></a>. “People say it takes a village to raise a child, so I’d just like to expand their networks.”</p> <p>The family are searching for two special seniors to help give their children guidance, go on family picnics, play games and go for walks. Ideally they would love someone who is bilingual (Alexandre is French) and interested in aviation, as their 13-year-old is fascinated with flying, but they’re happy to accept anyone with a positive outlook on life.</p> <p>“I also hope it encourages other people to reach out if they need support or more people around them,” Yvonne says. “Hopefully we’ll have a few applicants and we’ll all click.”</p> <p>We wish them the best of luck!</p> <p>What do you think about their wanted ad? Would you be willing to be a surrogate grandparent? Share your thoughts in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/05/grandparents-help-set-up-grandson-on-dating-app/"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Grandparents help set up grandson on dating app</strong></span></em></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/raising-my-grandchild-is-tough-but-amazing/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Taking over raising our grandchild was tough but the most amazing thing we’ve done</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/04/great-grandparents-adorably-mishear-pregnancy-announcement/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Great-grandparents adorably mishear pregnancy announcement</strong></em></span></a></p>

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