Saying a fond farewell to Marie

After spending 22 years in a variety of positions on the Board, the valued and respected Marie Liston recently ‘retired’ from her position as St Oswald’s Hospice Chair. However, Marie has been awarded the title of Vice President in recognition of her service so will still have a link to the Hospice. Marie tells us more about her St Oswald’s Hospice journey:

“Over the last 22 years I’ve taken on a number of voluntary roles that have varied from starting as a Trustee to becoming Chair. I’m extremely proud to have been involved with such a worthwhile charity for all these years and thrilled to be appointed honorary Vice President as it maintains my connection with the Hospice.

“I had hoped that the pandemic would be over by the time I left but that sadly isn’t the case. However, the organisation is in great, very capable hands and the teams have all adapted and grown so much during Covid-19. The resilience that the teams have shown is remarkable and very inspiring. The patients have always remained centre of everything they do. How the Hospice has coped, managed and thrived during the last couple of years is testament to the people who work or volunteer there, no matter what role they are in.”

Steph Edusei, Chief Executive at St Oswald’s Hospice said:

“Marie has been a very valued and respected member of our Board for over 22 years in one capacity or another and has provided invaluable support to the team, and to me personally as new Chief Executive, over the course of the pandemic so she’ll be a huge miss. I’m thrilled that we were able to honour Marie with the title of Vice President in recognition of her extraordinary service to St Oswald’s Hospice. We can’t thank Marie enough for her commitment, advice, time, knowledge and fundraising efforts over the years, the whole organisation is extremely grateful.”

During the last 22 years Marie has raised over £8000 for the Hospice through treks, bake sales, fundraising at work, and more. So, whilst she shed happy tears in stepping down, Marie still looks forward to future fundraising plans. Marie continued:

 “The Hospice is such a wonderful organisation which really swallows you up and you feel part of something very special, which is why I plan to continue to fundraise. Over the last 35 years it’s changed and evolved over time but what it stands for and its pride and passion has always been constant. I feel proud to have been involved with such a fantastic organisation for all these years.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone at St Oswald’s Hospice for adapting and always delivering care to such a high standard, in keeping with the Values. What you all achieve, day in, day out is truly remarkable.”