Covid-19 patient “forever grateful” to staff nurse
Covid-19 patient Heidi Briscoe has said she will be “forever grateful” to the nurse who cared for her. Heidi was admitted to hospital last year after contracting the virus and has now commended Emily Davis for her care and compassion by giving her the UHNM Hero award. Emily had only been fully qualified for two months at the time of caring for Heidi, having joined the team during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Heidi, who is also a nurse, said: “During my stay in hospital I remember being very frightened and often thought I was going to take my last breath. All you can do between bouts of sleep and receiving treatment is to watch and listen. Very often when you are so poorly, you take little in and your thought processes do not function as they usually do. However, what does stay with you is the kindness of those who are nursing you.
“I still remember Emily’s kindness to this day. Her efficiency and competence was fantastic. She was also reliable. If she promised to do something, it was done with clear explanations and you respected my dignity when it could have been easily lost. Emily had such incredible stamina along with her colleagues, working long shifts in such difficult circumstances. Despite it all she still managed to be cheerful, professional and always so caring. I remember thinking how resourceful and energetic she was.
“Emily made me feel confident that I was in safe hands the whole time and I really thank her so much for her care and attention those many months ago. It made a difference to me and I am forever grateful.”
Julie Cumberlidge, deputy associate chief nurse, has presented Emily with the UHNM Hero Award.
Emily and Julie Cumberlidge, deputy associate chief nurse
Julie said: “We are incredibly proud of Emily and the impact that she had on Heidi. What you do a for a patient in their time of need sticks with that individual and their family forever and Emily clearly made a huge impact on Heidi’s experience and care. For that we are so proud of her.”
Amanda Pateman, matron for diabetes, endocrinology and general medicine, said: “Heidi’s words about Emily brought a tear to my eye. Emily had only been qualified for two months at the time and joined the team during the Covid-19 pandemic. Emily is outstanding and the care she gives to patients is wonderful.”
Emily works on Ward 121 at Royal Stoke University Hospital.
Emily said: “It means a lot to receive such a lovely award, especially after only being qualified for a short time and joining the team during such a challenge. It was a pleasure to look after Heidi and I am so glad she’s doing well.”
(From right to left) Wendy Jackson, Directorate Manager for general medicine, Emily Davis, Staff Nurse, Amanda Pateman, matron for diabetes, endocrinology and general medicine, Julie Cumberlidge, deputy associate chief nurse and Hayley Bishop, Deputy associate director for medicine.