UHNM Hero Award Winners: Neurosurgery Team

Staff from the Neurosurgery service at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) have been praised for the difference they made to a university student during a difficult period of treatment.

Caitlan, 25, from Leeds, was able to return to her studies at Keele University this month after undergoing emergency brain surgery at Royal Stoke University Hospital.

The PhD astrophysics student nominated Sophie Bone, clinical support worker and Dr Sanskrithi Sravanam, resident doctor for a UHNM Hero Award in recognition of the “kind and compassionate” care they provided.

The complex procedure, known as a foramen magnum decompression, involved removing bone from the base of her skull and neck to relieve pressure around her brain.

Caitlan returned to Royal Stoke University Hospital last week to present the award alongside Lorraine Whitehead, director of estates, facilities and PFI.

Caitlan said: “After I had brain surgery, Sophie and Dr Sanskrithi were truly the kindest, most compassionate people I could have wished to have around me during such a difficult and vulnerable time.

“From the very beginning, they went above and beyond to make sure I felt comfortable, cared for and, most importantly, like myself.

“Because of my surgery I had some of my hair shaved off and Sophie took the time to plait my hair, making me feel like myself again. It might seem like such a small thing, but it meant so much to me.”

After receiving the award, Dr Sanskrithi said: “I am very shocked and honoured to have received this award. As healthcare professionals, we often move quickly from one patient to the next and we don’t always get the opportunity to hear about the difference we’ve made.”

Lorraine Whitehead said: “I was moved hearing first-hand how much Sophie and Sanskrithi’s care meant to Caitlan during such a difficult time and it was a privilege to present them with this award.”