Murdoch volunteer recognised for exceptional service

Kam Phagura, one of the St John of God Murdoch Hospital’s long-standing volunteers, received a WA Volunteer Service Award during Volunteer Week this year.

16 May 2022

Murdoch volunteer Kam Phagura wins WA Volunteer Service award 2022

Presented by the Department of Communities, this award acknowledges the extraordinary effort of volunteers in Western Australia, who willingly give their time to give back to their communities, particularly during this recent difficult period when organisations have experienced unprecedented challenges.

Kam, who become a volunteer with the hospital in 1997, has contributed more than 25 years of volunteering service to St John of God Murdoch Hospital.

She currently volunteers in palliative care, paediatrics and theatre, and has volunteered across several wards and departments throughout her years at St John of God Murdoch Hospital.

Kam’s role in paediatrics is to provide care and support to parents and guardians whose children are undergoing surgery.

In what is often a daunting and challenging time, Kam ensures parents are fully educated, cared for and supported through their child’s surgical journey.

Kam is also situated at the St John of God Murdoch Community Hospice where she supports the palliative care nurses and patients in their daily duties.

"Kam volunteers in the hospice once a week. Her duties include visiting the patients where she is very happy to sit and chat and get them anything that they ask for, which could be the paper or a cup of tea," said Hospice Nurse Manager Jessica Wirrell.

"She also assists by taking the meals to the patients and provides reiki to any patients who may benefit from this as she is also a trained reiki therapist. She will go out of her way to do anything for anyone."

Murdoch’s Consumer Engagement Coordinator Matt Hands commended Kam on her significant contributions to the hospital.

“Kam is incredibly kind, understanding and patient in what can often be a high stress environment,” he said.

“I often receive feedback from patients, visitors and staff about how Kam helped them get through a difficult time.”

Kam, and all of the volunteers at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, play an important role in providing a vital link between the hospital and community while supporting our caregivers every day.

If you are interested in joining our community of volunteers, please email [email protected]