Patients having dialysis treatment help create beautiful Poppy display at Royal Derby Hospital
Patients who are undergoing dialysis treatment for kidney failure have been using their appointment time to create poppies for a touching display at Royal Derby Hospital.
People experiencing kidney failure often need to visit the renal unit for four-hour dialysis treatments, three times a week, sometimes for the rest of their lives. To help patients pass the time, the Renal Dialysis Unit has developed a new programme that aims to improve patients’ experiences when undergoing dialysis.
In the past the team has organised quizzes, visits from musicians and helped make the environment more welcoming but the latest activity is a beautiful nod to Armistice Day, on Saturday 11 November.
Toni Stanley, Renal Technician and Patient Experience Champion for the unit, said: "We asked patients to paint poppies which have been collated into a display on the Unit. Our patients have worked hard and painted lots of beautiful poppies which we have displayed so the patients can admire their own artwork whilst remembering those who fought for our country."
Toni has also printed copies of the poem 'On Flanders Field' to share with patients who will be having dialysis treatment on Saturday.
Senior sister Sam Inger said she is very proud of the Renal Patient Experience Team who go above and beyond whilst doing their clinical roles to make our patients smile whilst having their dialysis.
Sam said: "It is so lovely to see patients enjoying activities such as the poppy painting. The dialysis unit is often referred to by patients as their second home and the team are working so hard to make their treatment not just 'another appointment' but somewhere that brightens their day.
"Dialysis is hard and life-changing for patients so it gives me and the rest of the staff so much pleasure to see our patients doing something they can enjoy. The team's hard work and passion has brought so much joy to our patients and the unit in general.
"What the team has done with this poppy project is such a beautiful way to remember. A huge thank you to everyone involved."