Health Heroes: Nominate a health worker for award

THE search is on to find the unsung heroes of the health service, who provide exceptional commitment and dedication to their patients.
Arlene Stuart is joined by NHS Cardiology Staff Simon Dunn and Ann Henry for the Launch of the 2015 awards. Picture: Neil HannaArlene Stuart is joined by NHS Cardiology Staff Simon Dunn and Ann Henry for the Launch of the 2015 awards. Picture: Neil Hanna
Arlene Stuart is joined by NHS Cardiology Staff Simon Dunn and Ann Henry for the Launch of the 2015 awards. Picture: Neil Hanna

From a community midwife, a volunteer caring for autistic children, or an outstanding doctor or nurse – we want your nominations for Lothian Health Hero, part of the NHS Celebrating Success Awards.

The Evening News has teamed up with NHS Lothian to promote the award for the fourth year, which aims to recognise the selfless and committed individuals working tirelessly for the NHS.

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Last year’s inspirational winner was Heather McVicars, who works as a research nurse in cancer clinical trials at the Western General Hospital. She was nominated for going above and beyond by her patient Lynn Mellon, who took part in one of Heather’s trials after she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Last years winner Heather McVicars accept her award from Cat Cubie. Picture: Ian GeorgesonLast years winner Heather McVicars accept her award from Cat Cubie. Picture: Ian Georgeson
Last years winner Heather McVicars accept her award from Cat Cubie. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Diabetes nurse Gayle McRobert, based at the Western General Hospital, scooped the award in 2013 after helping David Murray come to terms with complications in his type 2 
diabetes.

Tim Davison, chief executive of NHS Lothian, said: “The Health Hero Award is a way of saying thank you to those staff who put their heart and soul into providing the high standards of care NHS Lothian is so proud of.

“I’d ask anyone who has been in hospital, attended a clinic, or been treated by a member of our staff who made a real difference to their care or the care of a loved one, to give them the special recognition they deserve by nominating them for a Health Hero Award.”

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Edinburgh News managing editor Frank O’Donnell said: “NHS staff carry out extraordinary work which changes the lives of their patients every single day.

“Their skill and compassion can sometimes go unnoticed and these awards aim to celebrate and recognise those who go above and beyond. The News is delighted to be associated with the awards and with the hard work and diligence of the employees in our treasured health service.”

Radio Forth star Arlene Stuart will present this year’s awards at a ceremony at the Edinburgh Corn Exchange in June, and launched the award with staff at the cardiology department at the ERI.

“There’s so much amazing work going on in the health service and the Health Hero award recognises the caring, selfless and dedicated staff that are the backbone of NHS Lothian,” she said.

The Celebrating Success awards are now in their eighth year and the winners will be announced on June 19.