For four years, Kay was a cherished part of our community, volunteering at the Royal Free Hospital (RFH) to support new amputees with her compassion and lived experience.
Her journey into volunteering began in 2021, when she underwent life-saving surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Kay had a six-hour operation on her aorta at the RFH and although the procedure was successful, the lack of blood supply to her leg meant it had to be amputated.
With a mortality rate of around 80% in such cases, clinical staff described her survival as a testament to her fighting spirit. That same resilience shaped everything she did.
Kay joined our support hub’s amputee support group that brings together patients on the wards, those further along in recovery and our welfare advisors. She became a regular attendee, offering practical advice and emotional support.
In March this year, Kay took on the role of peer facilitator to lead the group and help others find their own strength.