Airedale Hospital trio are praised for winter heroics

Two consultants and a nurse were nominated as Winter Heroes as part of a scheme to recognise the work of NHS staff who “ploughed through”, providing exceptional care.

Stroke co-ordinator nurse Pam Beaumont, of Sutton-in-Craven, stroke consultant Dr Sam Mawer, of Oxenhope, and consultant obstetrician Dr Kathleen Graham, of Steeton, were thanked by chief executive Bridget Fletcher and presented with certificates.

Dr Graham was nominated by a patient who said she was “exceptionally” well looked after during and immediately after her high-risk pregnancy.

The woman patient wrote: “I was extremely anxious and scared, but Dr Graham treated me as an individual and was always gentle, kind and patient. I would have felt really alone without her. She went beyond the call of duty, made me feel safe, helped keep me motivated and encouraged me to fight for recovery for myself and my baby.”

Dr Graham said: “I was absolutely delighted and very surprised to hear that I had been nominated. I am also thrilled to know we are getting it right for patients.”

The two members of the stroke team were nominated by staff nurse Heather Shaw who said they went above and beyond their role to make sure the stroke service is as good as possible for their patients.

Dr Mawer said that while they were thrilled with the awards, their work was really a team effort. She said: “Both Pam and myself are delighted to accept this award but we both feel that the results we achieve are attributable to the hard work and support of the whole multi-disciplinary team who make up the stroke services. Without them none of what we are able to do would be possible.”

Bridget Fletcher said: “I am delighted that the dedication of our own Winter Heroes has been recognised and they should be proud of their achievement.”

The next phase of the NHS Heroes scheme runs until June 19, 2013. Patients or staff can nominate individuals or teams at nhsheroes.co.uk.