Couple lend helping hand to others

Volunteering has provided a renewed sense of purpose and “zest for life” to retired Australind couple, Val and Suzanne Saunders.

The retirees offer their time to various groups, with Mr Saunders helping Riding for the Disabled Association South West and Mrs Saunders volunteering at St Nicholas Anglican Church.

The generous duo are also heavily involved in not-for-profit organisation Parkinson’s WA, coordinating monthly support groups in Bunbury and convening the weekly ParkinSong program.

Mr Saunders, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s six years ago, said involvement with the group offered support to him and others who had the disease.

“It keeps us busy,” Mr Saunders said.

“I really think volunteering is a great way to keep your wits about you and maintain a zest for life.”

Both Mr and Mrs Saunders sing in Parkinson’s WA’s ParkinSong choir which is made up of people with Parkinson’s, as well their partners and carers.

The choir meet at the Bunbury Regional Art Galleries each week for the singing group, designed to ensure people with Parkinson’s keep their voice active.

“It’s good support for one another,” Mrs Saunders said.

“Singing in a group people, can be afraid, but it is great support and we make a good sound.

“When people hear us sing they are astounded – it really is good fun.”

Speaking to the Bunbury Herald during last week’s National Volunteering Week, Mrs Saunders said their volunteering work was rewarding.

“It keeps involved and connected to people,” Mrs Saunders said.

“It gives a sense of purpose and it is quite fulfilling.”