HRH The Princess Royal paid visit to NHS Lothian’s Astley Ainslie Hospital to meet staff and patients

HRH The Princess Royal was welcomed at NHS Lothian’s Astley Ainslie Hospital at a special music event.

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The Princess Royal had the opportunity to meet staff and patients and to find out more about the work of the teams, including Occupational Therapy in supporting patients with rehabilitation.

Afterwards The Princess Royal joined staff and patients to enjoy an outdoor concert by the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra who Anne is Patron of.

Anne chatting to patients at the hospital Photo - Chris Watt

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The Astley Ainslie Hospital provides rehabilitation services for adults with acquired brain injury, stroke, orthopaedic injuries, limb amputation and progressive neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. For many of these patients, rehabilitation is a long process which require extended stays in hospital.

The concert, which was held in the grounds of the hospital featured a selection of well-known traditional Scottish pieces including “Our Princess Royal”.

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Sheena Muir, Hospital and Hosted Services Manager, NHS Lothian said: “It has been a real honour to welcome The Princess Royal to hear more about the incredible work our teams do.”

“Spending a long time in hospital can be really hard, with many of the simple activities that patients would have enjoyed before no longer being available to them. Partnering with the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra on this event has been really wonderful, as it has enabled us to bring a full orchestra on site for a fabulous concert of traditional Scottish music. For our patients this has offered a real sense of fun, excitement and occasion, with the added benefit of supporting their health and wellbeing.”

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