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Lydie, volunteer for the library and 'Even uit de kamer'

Lydie (64) combines 2 volunteer assignments on Tuesdays. In the morning de voormiddag werkt ze als dispatcher for the ‘Even uit de kamer' project (Stepping out of your room), an initiative that gives patients the chance to step out of their room for a bit. In the afternoon, she In the afternoon, she delivers books from the hospital library. But it is the conversations she has with patients that make the biggest difference to her.

How did you get into volunteering?

'After a long career in the pharmaceutical sector, I found myself out of work in 2023 following a restructuring. I felt too young to do nothing at all and went looking for meaningful work. Through UZ Leuven, I found volunteer work that suits me perfectly. I started as a dispatcher for ‘Even uit de kamer’, which is administrative work. I liked that because I always need some time to get used to a new environment. Later I also became involved in the library activities.' 

I quickly noticed that patients mostly need a chat.

What exactly does your volunteer work entail?

"In the library, they first let me cover and organise books, but later I was also called on to bring the range of books to the patients. On the wards I visit, such as hospitalisation 8 in the “Women, Children and Genetics” building, I quickly realised that patients mostly want a chat, rather than a book (smiles). Having to stay in hospital until the delivery because of a high-risk pregnancy, far removed from family and friends, having to rehabilitate after major surgery ...  These are difficult times. During my visits, I try to put them at ease or offer them some distraction.'

What drives you to do this? 

'I get a lot of satisfaction from these meetings. Sometimes I return to the same room a week later and getimmediately recognised. Or I'm told: ‘It's nice of you to stop by Miss.’ When patients tell me how their situation has evolved, it feels special to have been part of of their journey for a little bit. I met a pregnant woman who was extremely afraid of giving birth prematurely. I tried to encourage her and shared my own experience with my grandson who was born prematurely and is now doing splendidly. A couple of weeks later I saw her again - this time with birth announcement card on the door. That was a very moving moment.'

A five minute conversation can make a big difference.

What do you gain from your volunteer work?

"I realise more than ever how important small gestures can be. A five minute conversation can already make a big difference. People feel heard, supported. Volunteering is also enriching for me personally. It gives structure to my week and gives me the sense that I mean something to others.'

Last edit: 5 february 2026