For 14 years, Muriel Wroe has been a steadfast presence at St Stephen’s Hospital in Hervey Bay, dedicating over 2700 hours of her time to serving patients in need. With her warm smile and compassionate heart, Muriel has touched the lives of over 30,000 patients during their time at the hospital.

Muriel’s journey into volunteering was inspired by a deeply personal experience. After spending eleven weeks by her mother’s side as she received care at St Stephen’s Hospital in Maryborough, Muriel witnessed firsthand the impact that volunteers could have on patients’ lives. Upon retiring from her administrative position in early 2009 and relocating to Hervey Bay, Muriel seized the opportunity to give back to her community by becoming a volunteer at St Stephen’s Hospital.

The inception of the ‘Patient Support Program’ can be traced back to Muriel’s decision to answer the call for volunteers published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle. Since then, she has dedicated herself to assisting both patients and staff at the hospital, finding fulfillment in the knowledge that she is making a difference in someone’s life during their hospital stay.

Muriel’s commitment to service extends beyond her volunteer duties. As a volunteer driver, she has had the privilege of transporting a neurologist who visits St Stephen’s Hospital monthly from the airport. “Our family GP had no hesitation in referring my husband to this neurologist,” she said, “It was comforting to already know the specialist. I feel volunteering has given back to me just as much as I have given.”

Reflecting on her volunteer journey, Muriel expresses gratitude for the profound impact it has had on her life. Volunteering at St Stephen’s Hospital has not only allowed her to give back to her community but has also enriched her personal and professional life in countless ways. For Muriel, becoming a volunteer was a life-changing decision—one that she is immensely proud of and hopes to continue for many years to come.

As a beacon of compassion and kindness, Muriel Wroe exemplifies the transformative power of volunteerism. Her unwavering dedication to serving others serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the profound impact that a single individual can have on the lives of many.