A volunteer driver who goes ‘above and beyond’ in transporting patients to and from Compton Hospice is a worthy opener to this Christmas’s Wolves Wishes.
Derek Timmins, 67, has been a volunteer driver at Compton Hospice for six years.
His role involves collecting patients from their homes and transporting them to the Hospice's Woods Therapy Centre where they are able to access care, treatment and support.
Derek has been described by staff as going 'above and beyond' for the patients of Compton Hospice making them feel relaxed, comforted and at ease on their journeys to and from the hospice. He takes the time to get to know the patients he picks up, finding out what their likes and dislikes are and offering reassurance as to what to expect when visiting the hospice.
Patients have commented that Derek always know how to make them smile and is able take their minds off their worries and troubles.
Tricia O'Connell visits the Compton Hospice Woods Therapy Centre every Thursday and describes Derek as 'a total sweetheart'.
She said: "The first time Derek picked me up for my first appointment at the hospice, I didn't know what to expect. But Derek made me feel at ease, told me about the hospice and had me laughing right from the start. He really is a funny guy, who always likes to make a joke. I love visiting the hospice and look forward to my car journeys with Derek."
A lifelong Wolves fan, Derek is a season ticket holder and never misses a home game. Talking of her husband's love for the boys in gold and black Vicky Timmins, who was involved in the surprise, commented: "Derek has always been a Wolves fan.
“He often tells the story of when he was seven or eight years old and snuck out of his home to the Molineux to watch the game, on his own! That's how dedicated he is. Still to this day he wears his Wolves baseball cap wherever he goes."
When asked to nominate a volunteer for a 'Wolves Wish' Compton Hospice staff did not hesitate in suggesting Derek.
Grace Ruston, PR & Marketing Officer, said: "Derek has been a dedicated supporter of Compton Hospice for many years.
“As well as being a volunteer driver over the year Derek has also helped to raise thousands of pounds for the hospice by hosting quiz nights.
"Derek always goes that extra mile for our patients, and ensures that he does so with a big smile. We couldn't think of anyone more deserving for this Wolves Wish.
"We wish to thank Wolves for helping to make a very kind and deserving man's wish come true."
Wolves players Dave Edwards, Jack Price, Harry Burgoyne and Bradley Reid visited Compton Hospice to deliver Derek’s Wolves Wish, which was preceded by the 'world premiere' of the Hospice’s Christmas video and then a message for Derek from club legend Steve Bull.
Derek was presented with a signed home shirt and a new baseball cap, and the offer of Director’s Box tickets for the trip to Queen’s Park Rangers in January.
There was then a little extra thanks to Wolves and the Hospice linking up with Tata Steel and Virgin Trains Wolverhampton.
Virgin Trains are to provide Derek and his three guests with first class travel tickets for the trip to West London, and Tata Steel have arranged for the party to travel in style to and from Loftus Road – by limousine!
“I’m overwhelmed,” was Derek’s response.
“I just thought I was coming in today to pick up a patient and take them home and as soon as I saw Steve Bull on the video and the name Derek Timmins I was wondering what was going on!
“It’s absolutely fantastic – I never expected anything like this and I can’t think everybody enough.”
''Tata Steel and our employees are pleased to have been able to support the fantastic work of Compton Hospice for a number of years now,” added Neil Potter, Customer Service Manager in Distribution for Tata Steel.
“It's a cause we feel strongly about and the event this year was a small way we can help make a difference.''
“We’re delighted to welcome Derek on board on his special day and we hope he has a very enjoyable one with the right result!” said David Whitehouse of Virgin Trains.
And so say all of us! Happy Christmas Derek, and to all at Compton Hospice.
