RAINBOW WARRIORS We call them heroes, sing their praises, and clap for them on our doorsteps. Now it’s time we heard from them. The staff of the RUH tell us their own pandemic experiences and their plans for a working Christmas Photographs by Rich Howman; Words by Elsie Chadwick
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he Forever Friends RUH Christmas Appeal has always been a vital source of funding for the hospital’s patients, families and staff. To help give us some insight in to the direct value of this appeal, we speak to four key staff from the hospital. Yes we call them angels, heroes and lifesavers, but they are also mothers, students, colleagues, and neighbours, all with their own story to tell.
Grace Mugagga, Critical Care nurse
“I’ve been qualified as a registered nurse for nine months and this is my first role as a nurse. I’ve always wanted to do nursing, I just didn’t know what type so I’m so pleased that I have found my place in Critical Care. “I studied at the University of the West of England (UWE) and did a seven week placement at the RUH in the Critical Care department. I had two mentors and they were very inspiring. I saw how they gave excellent care to the patients and I went home feeling that I had given it everything during those days. “It was because of one of my mentors that I wanted to come back and work in this team. I saw how my mentor Jaz cared for her patients. She did everything with a smile even when she was having a tough day. She was so inspiring to me and such a good role model, and the unit gave me a really good foundation to build on my knowledge and skills. They gave me the time and support I needed. “When I started here I was so excited to be working as a Critical Care nurse. But nothing prepared me for Covid-19. It was terrifying when we heard it was coming. I was worried about it but I thought that we are all in it together. I looked at everyone else working around me and how they were coping and we were all getting on with the job. By following all the advice and guidance, gradually I felt less anxious and just got on with it so I could care for my patients. I got to the point where I was looking forward to coming in and seeing my patients getting better and I felt that I wanted to give more. “Going through Covid-19 there have been times when people asked if I would stay in my role, and the answer is always ‘yes’. I’m still smiling and that just confirms my dream is to have a career in Critical Care.”
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