Sixty Six today
Today I would like to pay tribute to a sprightly sixty six year old. You can find her in all kinds of places – from remote Hebridean islands to city centres. You will generally find her surrounded by the most brilliant minds and exceptional talents, whilst also playing host to the most needy people. She rarely blows her own trumpet, and even if she did it would probably be drowned by a chorus of criticism. Over the years she has been there to see countless babies arrive in the world and held the hands of many as they close their eyes for the last time. She never takes a day off, and welcomes needy visitors from dawn to dusk and dusk to dawn, 365 days every year. At an age where most are thinking about retiring she is still scouring the country for the brightest talent and the world for solutions to the problems which bug her.
Her name is…the NHS. She was born 66 years ago today in Park Hospital, Manchester. In global terms, I am immeasurably privileged to have grown up in the country where she lives. Times without number, I have been grateful for the skill, professionalism, compassion and humanity which typifies her.
To every nurse, porter, healthcare assistant, surgeon, radiographer and everything in between – thank you.
Image:wikia.nocookie.net
