An NHS worker has been recognised for the way she helped a man in distress when she was off duty. Elaine Morrison, who cares for amputee patients at the Trust, was on her way out for a meal when she came across a serious incident.
Elaine, a specialised therapy assistant based at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, was passing over Thornaby Bridge when she witnessed a young man sitting on the edge of a bridge.
Stopping her car, she spoke to him – police arrived but were satisfied with how she was leading the situation. She reassured him until the man was no longer in serious distress. Making sure he also got the support he needed.
Elaine has been presented with the trust’s special regular awards initiative, Star of the Month.
Praise from colleagues of Elaine
Her manager Siobhan Smith, who nominated her, said: “None of the team were aware of what Elaine had done until a letter arrived at work for me from the young man’s mum, thanking Elaine for saving her sons life and highlighting what a credit she is to the NHS.
“When I read the letter, her very humbled response was ‘It’s just what you do. I would want someone to do the same for my son’.
“In her day to day job Elaine is always receiving fantastic feedback from her patients. She positively impacts the lives of amputee patients. This is just another example of how truly wonderful she is.”
Elaine was presented her award from senior clinical professional Bob Warnock. Along with a personalised card written from Chief Executive Julie Gillon, who wrote: “What absolute embodiment of compassion you have demonstrated.
“To hear your response to the letter ‘it’s what we do’ let’s me know that you are truly deserving of this award. Thank you for being part of our Trust.”
