A “confidante” for parents of poorly children has been nominated in the Yorkshire Evening Post Best of Health Awards.
Janet Berry, a healthcare assistant on the Leeds General Infirmary children’s heart surgery ward, has been hailed as “amazing”.
She has been nominated in the Carer of the Year category, which is sponsored by Pulse Community Healthcare.
Janet has worked on the unit for a total of 22 years.
She was put forward by a parent for giving incredible support at difficult times.
The nomination said: “Janet was amazing. She was there as a confidante and a shoulder to cry on, as well as a carer.
“I have never met anyone with as much empathy, kindness and confidence in their work.
“It’s all too easy to think about all the qualified nurses, doctors and surgeons that could be nominated for a prestigious award.
“But it’s those who go about their business in the background – the support staff – that sometimes get forgotten and Janet isn’t a person I’ll ever forget.”
Janet worked previously at the unit’s earlier home at the former Killingbeck Hospital before moving to the LGI,
She said she loved her job because of the families and other medical staff on the ward.
“It’s a lovely job and I absolutely love it,” she added.
“I try to think about how I would feel in the mum’s situation.
“Those tender loving care details can go a long way.
“I’ve taken mums under my wing and if they’re a little bit worried, I’ll become their confidante.
“Sometimes it’s easier to ask me because the nursing staff are so busy and then I will pass those concerns on. I’ll help when I can.”
She said she was very surprised to be put forward.
“To me I am not doing this for anything special, but this is lovely, it’s an honour and I’d like to say thank you.”
Carer of the Year is one of 10 categories in the YEP Best of Health Awards, which are sponsored by Sovereign Health Care.
We’ve had a great response to the awards so far.
But there is still plenty of time for you to nominate a health worker you think deserves recognition for the work they do.
We’re particularly keen to hear about great opticians and physical therapists – such as chiropractors, physios, or osteopaths.
See the full list of categories and how to enter in the panel to the left.
Comments