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Home-Start volunteer's work is recognised by TAMBA (Twins and Multiple Births Association).
"Maggie suffered a brain haemorrhage some years ago, but despite her health problems she has always put others before herself. She really is the most lovely selfless person I know and that is why I entered her into a competition run by TAMBA". Lisa Morgan, mum supported by Maggie.
Maggie came second in the 2008 TAMBA Grandparents & Helpers award, Lisa says she is absolutely thrilled for her as she deserves some recognition. Maggie has been a Home-Start volunteer for a number of years now and Lisa is sure that she has made a real difference to all of the families that she has supported, just like she has for her.
After many years of IVF treatment Lisa became pregnant with twin boys. Sadly, during the pregnancy, Lisa's relationship with her partner broke down and Lisa was left dealing with the prospect of bringing up twins on her own. Lisa's health visitor told her about Home-Start whilst she was still pregnant and Lisa referred herself to Home-Start before the twins were born.
Lisa says, "Maggie was assigned to me and we hit it off instantly, she really couldn't do enough to help. She has always been there for me, offering practical help and advice as well as emotional support and she has never judged my parenting."
"It was so difficult in the early days being on my own. If I managed to get dressed before lunch, it was a good day! I'll never forget the first day I managed to get us all dressed, fed and out by 10am. I was so proud of myself," recalls Lisa.
Lisa's twin sons are now three and over the years Maggie and Lisa have become firm friends. Lisa says that her boys adore Maggie and look forward to spending time with her. Lisa says: "Our relationship has moved on from a professional one to a personal one. My boys even call her Aunty Maggie. I hope that Maggie will always be part of our lives."
Things have started to change for the better on a personal level too for Lisa. Since meeting Maggie, Lisa has found a new partner and in May 2009 they are getting married. Maggie and her husband will be sharing the special day.
"I am so pleased that TAMBA has recognised what Maggie has done for me, she really is an extraordinary lady," says Lisa.
Find out more about volunteering
Maggie came second in the 2008 TAMBA Grandparents & Helpers award, Lisa says she is absolutely thrilled for her as she deserves some recognition. Maggie has been a Home-Start volunteer for a number of years now and Lisa is sure that she has made a real difference to all of the families that she has supported, just like she has for her.
After many years of IVF treatment Lisa became pregnant with twin boys. Sadly, during the pregnancy, Lisa's relationship with her partner broke down and Lisa was left dealing with the prospect of bringing up twins on her own. Lisa's health visitor told her about Home-Start whilst she was still pregnant and Lisa referred herself to Home-Start before the twins were born.
Lisa says, "Maggie was assigned to me and we hit it off instantly, she really couldn't do enough to help. She has always been there for me, offering practical help and advice as well as emotional support and she has never judged my parenting."
"It was so difficult in the early days being on my own. If I managed to get dressed before lunch, it was a good day! I'll never forget the first day I managed to get us all dressed, fed and out by 10am. I was so proud of myself," recalls Lisa.
Lisa's twin sons are now three and over the years Maggie and Lisa have become firm friends. Lisa says that her boys adore Maggie and look forward to spending time with her. Lisa says: "Our relationship has moved on from a professional one to a personal one. My boys even call her Aunty Maggie. I hope that Maggie will always be part of our lives."
Things have started to change for the better on a personal level too for Lisa. Since meeting Maggie, Lisa has found a new partner and in May 2009 they are getting married. Maggie and her husband will be sharing the special day.
"I am so pleased that TAMBA has recognised what Maggie has done for me, she really is an extraordinary lady," says Lisa.
Find out more about volunteering
