Chief Executive Award Winners: Alison Hayward and Jessica Pardo

Two members of staff from County Hospital who “went above and beyond” for a member of the local community have each been presented with a UHNM Chief Executive Award.

Alison Hayward, a staff nurse on County’s Elective Orthopaedic Unit, was on her way home from work in Stafford when she spotted a woman collapsed at the side of the road next to her son.

Alison was able to safely get the woman to County Hospital for treatment with the help of Jane Holmes, Deputy Chief Nurse, who was also on her way home.

On arrival at A&E, Alison was greeted by Jessica Pardo, Deputy Sister, who took charge of the situation and provided support to the woman’s son who was severely autistic.

Alison and Jessica were presented with their awards by Tracy Bullock, UHNM Chief Executive.

Alison explains: “I was driving home from work and saw a lady on the floor by a roundabout. Straight away I pulled over.

“I assessed her, and despite being responsive, she was drifting in and out of consciousness, so I phoned for an ambulance. Jane Holmes, our Deputy Chief Nurse was also on her way home from County and pulled over to help. As this lady’s condition could deteriorate further, we made the decision to take her to County A&E ourselves, so with the help of her son, we managed to get her into my car.”

Jesscia said: “Alison and I know each other from working together at Royal Stoke’s Critical Care Unit, and also when Alison worked bank shifts here in A&E.

“This was a case of getting the patient stable after she arrived here safely thanks to Alison and Jane. We had to make sure that her and her son were reassured that she was in safe hands and we’d get her sorted.”.

Speaking about Alison and Jessica, Jane Holmes said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to Alison for stopping her car whilst not on duty and going above and beyond for our local community by taking care of this lady. A big thank you to Jessica for supporting us at County and showing kindness in getting things right for our patients.

“Thank you both for your quick thinking, but most importantly, showing compassion. I feel so proud of being part of Team UHNM, working with such brilliant colleagues.”

Alison added: “It was a pleasure to be able to help, but quite scary as she did seem quite unwell.”