MAGAZINE

“Being part of the team makes youfeel that you are doing somethingworthwhile – I feel secure.”BrianTime to GiveThey say a volunteer is worthten pressed men. Father andson Brian and Martin Murphyare more than willing togive their time and theirtalents – and as members ofMersey Care’s army ofvolunteers each is invaluablein his own unique way.Martin, now 47, had volunteeredfor many years but in spite ofattending a Queen’s garden partyand meeting the Dalai Lama, henever felt fulfilled.It was under sad circumstances hecame into contact with MerseyCare. An operation to cure backpain didn’t go to plan and Martinwas left with severe back pain andalso lost the use of his right leg. Hestill needs a wheelchair to travelmore than a few yards. His mumMaureen was his main carer andthe two were inseparable. WhenMaureen suffered a debilitatingstroke in 2010 the depression thatfollowed prompted Martin to seeksomething to help him throughthe dark days.10