THE chairman of The Stroud Hospital League of Friends has stood down from his position after dedicating more than half a lifetime to the role.
David Miller MBE announced he would step down from the position at the group’s AGM last week after 42 years, much to the sadness of colleagues and friends.
During his many years of dedicated volunteer service Mr Miller has seen millions of pounds raised to support the vital work of Stroud Hospitals.
He has also provided crucial links between the community and the healthcare services, helped keep the hospitals up to date with the latest medical advances and ensured people in Stroud get the best care and support possible.
Over more than four decades work, Mr Miller has also helped Stroud’s NHS through difficult periods and vigorously defended its valuable services from closure.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed for over 42 years the role firstly of Hon. Secretary and then Chairman of this great League of Friends but it has only been so enjoyable because of the support of so many people,” he said.
“My personal thanks go to The President, the Officers and Committee of the Friends and our fine team of volunteers, including the much appreciated Chaplaincy Team.
“My thanks also to fine, skilled caring nursing and support staff of all the units we serve, the leading consultants and doctors who support the work of the Stroud Hospitals, and the Officers of the governing NHS trusts.
“It is the fine beneficial work done by both these teams, volunteers and staff over two centuries that is so appreciated by the people of the community we serve. “This has resulted in the Stroud Hospitals being central to the hearts of our people with the result that we are supported magnificently by so many in our community.
“We have been involved in many hugely beneficial things over the years, purchases of equipment and improvement projects at the Stroud Hospitals.”
Mr Miller gave special thanks to his wife Margaret for her support and commended the future of the League of Friends under the guidance of the new Chairman, Dr Gordon Horner who accepted the role on a temporary basis until a long term Chairman has been appointed.
Susan Strongitharm, part-time administrator at the league, said: “David has dedicated over half his lifetime to helping and growing the League of Friends.
“So much of the success we have is owed to him – he’s been a fantastic chairman.
“From helping saving the Stroud Maternity Unit to helping fund vital equipment, he’s been right at the forefront of everything here for so many years.”
The league of friends support Stroud General Hospital, Stroud Maternity Hospital, Beeches Green Health Centre, Park House, Weavers Croft and Stroud Ambulance Station.
Last year over £148,000 was raised to purchase equipment and other items for NHS services.
Mr Miller was awarded an MBE for his years of service in 2005.
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