A fundraising collection by Southmead Hospital’s Stroke Ward team has funded a beautiful wood carved tree in memory of their colleague Maureen Ellington, a healthcare assistant who sadly passed away last April after testing positive for COVID-19.
The memorial carving recognises Maureen’s 25 years of service to North Bristol NHS Trust and also provides a space for colleagues to express their thoughts and feelings, to remember Maureen and to think of other lives lost during the pandemic.
Funding from the Fresh Arts programme has supplemented the memorial collection meaning that more wellbeing initiatives can be funded for the team. The recently established wellbeing room on Ward 34a will be decorated to ensure that it is a restful and healing environment in which staff members are able to recharge during demanding shifts. Once COVID-19 restrictions are eased, the Stroke Ward team will also be gathering together for a woodcarving workshop.
“Maureen’s colleagues on the Stroke Ward were very keen to set up a collection so they could honour her life.
“Working with the Fresh Arts team, they’ve created a beautiful memorial to Maureen and established some lovely wellbeing initiatives to ensure that her memory lives on. We’re humbled to be able to support the team through this time and help recognise a truly valued member of the North Bristol Trust family.”
Sarah Harrison, Director of Southmead Hospital Charity
