Susan O'Donnell
I lost my father to cancer aged 13 years old. The following year (1973), I joined the British Red Cross along with some school friends. Together we embarked on the Bronze D of E Award. Our individual journeys were very diverse, but in some elements we were able to support each other.
My personal journey ended at Buckingham Palace in autumn of 1977 where I received my Gold Certificate, a ceremony with HRH Prince Philip.
The Award Scheme provided me with many challenges all of which I genuinely believe played a huge part in developing me as a person, forming my character and they set me in good stead for the rest of my life. I became more adventurous, confident and resourceful. I owe so much of who I am today and what I achieved to the scheme.
i gained a huge amount of valuable insight (and pleasure) working in my local geriatric hospital as a volunteer.
A course about the police sparked an interest that materialised into a life long successful career.
Other highlights included a week long trip to Holland aged 16 with two other female friends (of the same age). Staying in youth hostels, using public transport before the days of mobile phones. Looking back so brave of our parents, but what an experience.
I developed my swimming ability from an occasional pastime to a high level of competition life saving. Ultimately taking part in national competitions individually and in a team. This also led to me becoming a voluntary lifeguard on my local beach for many years.
It also led to me having the opportunity to sail on one of the two Sail Training Schooners, the Sir Winston Churchill. Learning things about myself few other things would teach me. Two further trips followed as Watch Leader. An experience I found immensely rewarding.
So 'Thank you', from the bottom of my heart. May you R.I.P. Sir and may your scheme continue well into the future in order that other young people can derive similar benefits and life experience.
Sue
My personal journey ended at Buckingham Palace in autumn of 1977 where I received my Gold Certificate, a ceremony with HRH Prince Philip.
The Award Scheme provided me with many challenges all of which I genuinely believe played a huge part in developing me as a person, forming my character and they set me in good stead for the rest of my life. I became more adventurous, confident and resourceful. I owe so much of who I am today and what I achieved to the scheme.
i gained a huge amount of valuable insight (and pleasure) working in my local geriatric hospital as a volunteer.
A course about the police sparked an interest that materialised into a life long successful career.
Other highlights included a week long trip to Holland aged 16 with two other female friends (of the same age). Staying in youth hostels, using public transport before the days of mobile phones. Looking back so brave of our parents, but what an experience.
I developed my swimming ability from an occasional pastime to a high level of competition life saving. Ultimately taking part in national competitions individually and in a team. This also led to me becoming a voluntary lifeguard on my local beach for many years.
It also led to me having the opportunity to sail on one of the two Sail Training Schooners, the Sir Winston Churchill. Learning things about myself few other things would teach me. Two further trips followed as Watch Leader. An experience I found immensely rewarding.
So 'Thank you', from the bottom of my heart. May you R.I.P. Sir and may your scheme continue well into the future in order that other young people can derive similar benefits and life experience.
Sue
