Suzan Reece

“I started volunteering at The Haven just over a year ago. Having both family and friends who were unfortunate enough to experience breast cancer, I was relatively well versed in the support available to them. I had been planning to volunteer for a breast cancer charity and I was fortunate that I saw a poster advertising the new Haven in Leeds.

Coming to The Haven, meeting the team and seeing the work that went on blew me away.  The caring, professional approach and lack of sterility in the place gave only a minor indication of the genuine warmth that the Haven team offers. I was made to feel so welcome I couldn’t leave.  The Haven offers a range of support I have seen nowhere else. I only wish that it had been available when my family and friends needed it.

Volunteering at The Haven, I meet and get to know a huge range of people who are all determined in their efforts to improve the quality of life for each and every Visitor.  I have integrated The Haven into my working life (at Leeds Thomas Danby College) and I get my students involved in helping at fundraising events which I really believe enhances their education and see opportunities for their future working lives. 

So far I have attended balls and assisted with auctions, been to the races sold raffle tickets, stewarded at the High Heel-a-thon, trained other volunteers, helped out at several Haven events and worked on Reception! 

The Haven has given me a range of new friends and skills that I don’t think I could have found anywhere else.

Every Visitor who leaves The Haven walking taller and more confident in themselves is a testament to the team here.  I am very proud to be part of a team that makes such a difference to men and women’s lives at a time of great stress.”

Suzan Reece