Museum volunteers tell story of major medical discovery

Almost 100 years ago, St Mary's Hospital was home to one of the most important medical discoveries of the 20th century - and today our volunteers are helping to share this incredible story.

The Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum opened at St Mary's back in 1993, documenting Fleming's revolutionary discovery of penicillin.

After closing temporarily during the Covid-19 pandemic, the museum finally reopened its doors to visitors last year.

And our Museum Guide Volunteers are now playing an important role helping Museum Curator and Archivist Kevin Brown share Fleming's ground-breaking work with the world.

Patricia Walton has been volunteering with us for over 10 years, and has a special connection to Fleming's landmark discovery.

"Penicillin has followed me throughout my life," she said.

"I was given penicillin when I was three years old for pneumonia and measles. Without it, I'm sure I would have died."

Patricia later worked for the pharmaceutical company Beecham as part of the legal team responsible for patenting the drug.

After going on to enjoy a successful 30-year career at the BBC, she then joined its volunteer visitor scheme, providing companionship to retired BBC staff.

Today Patricia enjoys her shifts in the museum, alongside several other volunteers who have joined her since the pandemic.

The museum houses Fleming's historic laboratory, restored to its original condition, with a film and exhibition about his landmark discovery of the drug.

Feeling inspired? Find out more about volunteering opportunities in our hospitals at imperialcharity.org.uk/volunteer

Dozens of young people aged 16 to 21 have been making a big impact in our hospitals after signing up to take part in our Youth Volunteering Programme.

More than 50 young people are currently volunteering with us at Charing Cross Hospital and Hammersmith Hospital, supporting NHS staff and helping to improve the experience of care for patients and their families.

The programme provides a unique opportunity for young people to learn more about a career in healthcare while doing something meaningful to support their local community.

Many of those taking part in the programme have told us they're passionate about healthcare and excited to explore a medical career in the future.

"My first shift was very rewarding," one volunteer told us. "I met so many incredible people and I can't wait to come back next week!"

You can find out more about our latest volunteer roles at imperialcharity.org.uk/volunteer