At 92, great-grandmother Marie Marchant is older than many of the patients she cares for at Footscray Hospital.
The long-time Deer Park resident signed up to the hospital’s volunteer program in 1998, the year her husband Ted died there after suffering cardiac arrest.
Mrs Marchant is the oldest of Western Health’s 650 volunteers, who are being recognised for their contributions during National Volunteer Week.
Every morning, she completes a cryptic crossword at home before having tea and toast and heading out the door.
She has no plans of easing up any time soon.
“Well, at least until I can’t drive any more,” Mrs Marchant said.
She said she felt at home when she walked through the entrance of Footscray Hospital.
“I just feel as though it wraps its arms around you when you walk through the door,” she said
Mrs Marchant has held several volunteering roles at Footscray, including visitor guide, administration and talking and listening with palliative care and cancer patients.
She shuns the use of a calculator in administration.
“I like to use this,” she said, pointing to her head. “I won’t use a calculator – I hate them.”
Footscray Hospital volunteer co-ordinator Michelle Dellios described Mrs Marchant as “just a joy”.
“Her love of the hospital is overwhelming,” Ms Dellios said.
“She can adapt to any situation and she’s always happy to do extra.
“She’s amazing.”
