Name: Dr Virendra Soni
Rotary Club: Member of Bedford Castle Rotary for the last 30 years
Occupation: Retired Ophthalmic Surgeon
Why did you join Rotary?
I joined Rotary to serve the community locally, nationally and internationally through fellowship of Rotary International, and I have served in many countries as an eye surgeon.
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Why did you get involved as a volunteer at the vaccination centre in Bedford?
Through our Rotary club, I became aware that our local NHS Trust needed volunteers to help with the vaccination centres. The last 12 months have been rewarding working as a volunteer. I am sure that Rotary International feels proud of such contributions.
What have you learnt since joining Rotary?
Rotary has taught me a true fellowship of like-minded people who believe in ‘Service Above Self ’ and other motto’s of Rotary
What have the past 12 months been like working at the centre?
I have been doing this voluntary work every week regularly for the last 12 months and will carry on doing it as long as needed. It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve the community. I have been talking to people to allay their fears about the Covid disease, discussing the preventions we must take and understanding the side-effects of vaccine. I have been helping at the centre with car parking, hand sanitisation, reassuring the patients, as well as dealing with the side-effects from the fear of injections and the vaccine itself. The experience has enriched my knowledge about my own community.
What would you say to someone thinking of joining Rotary?
I have always and will recommend anyone to join Rotary for its trusted fellowship and ‘Service Above Self ’ to become a part of this international family.
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