News from Guy’s and St Thomas’ Issue 32 | 2019

Happy Birthday Celebrating 150 years of Evelina London THIS ISSUE

Contents

05 Green fingers Getting active in the garden Welcome I am delighted to welcome you to this issue of 08 Helping the hidden the GiST. Here for everyone Even though I have worked at Guy’s and St Thomas’ as a doctor for most of my career, I’m still amazed by the incredible work our staff do across the organisation and I’m pleased that we can share this with you. Many things have changed since Evelina Hospital for Sick Children first opened its doors in 1869. Over the years we’ve developed so many new and better ways to treat children, and we now care for 95,000 young patients a year in our hospital and community services. In this issue of the GiST, we look at our extraordinary history and the inspiring care we provide today. 10 Unsung heroes You can also read about a family who have paid the ultimate tribute to the Dedicated volunteers doctors and nurses that saved their daughter’s life – by naming her after Evelina London. Read their story on page 7. 12 Happy birthday Our Health Inclusion Team are making a difference to the lives of some of 150 years of Evelina London London’s most vulnerable people. Find out about the work they do on page 8. More than 750 dedicated volunteers provide around 33,000 hours of their time each year across our Trust. Meet the wonderful team who help our elderly patients to get active on the wards on page 10. You can also read about all the things we are doing as an organisation to become more environmentally friendly, on page 14. I hope you enjoy this issue of the GiST.

18 Helping hand A day with a hand therapist Dr Ian Abbs, Chief Executive We are delighted that the GiST has been shortlisted for the Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust ‘Best Corporate Publication – External’ by the CorpComms Awards 2019 .

Meet the team TELL US WHAT YOU THINK Words and photos by Marjorie Allen, Kelly Cook, Nzinga Cotton, Simon Ellery, Ciorsdan Glass, If you have any comments about the Maxine Hoeksma, Jessica Law, Rebecca Leddy, magazine or suggestions for future articles, Eloise Parfitt, Joe Parry and Anna Perman. please contact the communications department, St Thomas’ Hospital, Cover photo by David Tett. Westminster Bridge Road, 22 Behind the scenes Design: AYA-Creative www.aya-creative.co.uk London SE1 7EH, or email press @gstt.nhs.uk Discover the importance of art Visit us online at: www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk Print: O’Sullivan Communications

Front cover: Evelina London patient Marina Yaqobi the GiST is published by

2 the GiST ROUND-UP

Sam soars with IN THE NEWS breakthrough A round-up of media coverage featuring Guy’s and St Thomas’. study Daily Mirror The Daily Mirror featured Evelina London patient, Mia Mifsud A schoolboy has taken part in a (below), who was the youngest groundbreaking trial at Evelina London competitor at the British Children’s Hospital which has helped Transplant Games. him to grow. Sam Short with his sister Issy and brother Alex The three-year-old had both Sam Short, nine, has achondroplasia kidneys removed by the time she – also known as dwarfism. The condition hands over his head, tie his shoe laces and was three months old and a is caused by a gene mutation which ride a bike. kidney transplant from her dad means that bones do not grow properly. “While Sam has always been extroverted, after two years on dialysis. This can lead to other health issues it has really helped to increase his including developmental delay, sleep independence and confidence.” apnoea, and chronic pain. Dr Melita Irving, a clinical geneticist at The results of the trial, which have Evelina London and local principal been published in the New England investigator for the study, said: “The aim of Journal of Medicine, showed that a new this study was to reduce the serious treatment called vosoritide helped complications of achondroplasia, which can increase the growth rate in children with be far reaching and can really affect achondroplasia by 50%. patients’ quality of life. Sam’s mother, Jenn, from Fulham in “Being able to help prevent these west London, said: “The trial has been complications means that children like Sam completely life-changing for Sam. will be less likely to need interventions like “He can now stand straighter, link his surgery, which is a really fantastic result.”

ITV London News Klinefelter’s syndrome is a common condition where men are Pharmacist develops information app born with an extra X chromosome. It can cause male infertility and often goes untreated. MedTap, which is free to download, ITV London News reported that provides answers to common questions Guy’s Hospital is running the first such as when and how to take pills, what to clinic in the UK to deal solely with do about side effects and how to re-order. the condition. Users can watch videos on topics such as BBC Look East heart attacks and atrial fibrillation. They can Theo Walker was interviewed on also record their medicines, appointments BBC Look East about how his life and test results to help improve how they has been transformed after manage their own care. pioneering treatment at Gayle Campbell, senior cardiovascular St Thomas’ Hospital for severe pharmacist at Guy’s and St Thomas’, said: eczema. Gayle Campbell “Understandably, people can forget what The condition was so bad that it health professionals tell them about their left Theo in constant pain and A new app that features videos with Guy’s medicines during a clinic visit. unable to move, but everything and St Thomas’ staff has been developed “We developed this app to give patients changed after he became one of to help patients take their medications. that information at their fingertips. Patients the first people in the country to Research shows that 10 days after and their families can access the specific be given a new drug called being prescribed a medicine, more than information they need whenever they need it. dupilumab. half of patients are not taking them “It’s like having a recorded version of their correctly. consultation available 24 hours a day.”

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 3 ROUND-UP P P i i c c t t u u r r e e

c c o o u u r r t t e e s s y y

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R B a r e f a n e d l a a n

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F o o m s t i e n r g

o P s h

Dr Ronx with two attendees o t o g r a

Inspiring youth p h y TV presenters Dr Ranj Singh and Dr Ronx Ikharia encouraged Evelina London patients to “dream big” at the annual Inspiring Youth Conference. Young people aged 11 to 16 attended the event, which is now in its fourth year. Dr Ranj, a Strictly Come Dancing star, and Dr Ronx, presenter of children's TV show Operation Ouch, The 300 supporters and staff who took part in London's most thrilling 'urban triathlon' – Guy’s Urban spoke about their careers and the Challenge – raised an incredible £100,000 for Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity. The classic route saw them run 2.4km, spin 15km on a Wattbike and climb 29 floors to the top of Guy’s Tower. importance of looking after yourself. Dr Ranj said: “It’s really important that we nurture and support young people to dream big and become the Your voice best they can be. Moving into adulthood can be a very tricky time We love to hear from our patients, staff and supporters so join the so it’s also vital that young people conversation by following us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. know how to stay healthy and be happy.” @DrRanj @FrancisCoach01 (from Twitter) Dr Ronx added: “I wanted to show (from Twitter) Thanks as always to the fab young people that regardless of your The face you cardiology team @EvelinaLondon upbringing and background you can make when perfect balance of friendliness and do anything you want to do, with the you’ve just professionalism this morning with my right help, passion and dedication. secured a daughter #patientcenteredcare “I’m passionate about increasing $2billion deal at @BGCCharityDay in aid @_hannah_tomes (from Twitter) visibility and encouraging young of @EvelinaLondon! #BGCcharityday Spent my first ever night in hospital people not to put any limits on @JoWilsonEcho (from Twitter) (am alright!) and was bowled over by themselves. My motto is ‘you cannot Once again @GSTTnhs to the rescue!!! the warmth and boundless kindness be what you can’t see’.” Thank you so much to the Congenital of everyone I met. I knew the NHS was During the event young people Cardiology team at St Thomas’ hospital incredible, but as a generally healthy were encouraged to contribute ideas for their wonderful care for @ciciadamou person, it’s easy to forget when you about how Evelina London could today. A barrage of tests carried out with don’t use it often. To all at @GSTTnhs care for them even better. diligence and kindness and results – cheers! Isabelle Everest, 13, also gave an delivered by yet another lovely doctor! inspirational speech about living with Roxanne Vaneeza Butt Beechey cerebral palsy and how she become Alison Jayne Hunt (from Facebook) (from Facebook) a judo champion after undergoing 20 months after heart surgery I feel Thank you Evelina hospital for caring life changing surgery at Evelina amazing thank you Mr Bosco and for my boy under several London. everyone at St Thomas xXx departments brilliant care You can read more about Isabelle’s story on page 17. Twitter @GSTTnhs facebook.com/gsttnhs @EvelinaLondon youtube.com/gsttnhs

4 the GiST ROUND-UP Royal Patron New path shines a light on into nursing young parents

The Duchess of Cambridge, Patron of Evelina London, has visited Sunshine House Children and Young People’s Development Centre. During the visit to the centre in Peckham, Her Royal Highness met a specialist team of nurses who support first-time parents aged 24 and under. The Family Nurse Partnership in Southwark is delivered by Evelina London community services. The Duchess of Cambridge with Amina Deen and her daughter Ramira Parents are partnered with a specially Staff celebrate the new degree trained family nurse who visits them regularly, and down to earth. She was very interested in from early pregnancy until the child is two. Ramira and asked lots of questions about the Guy’s and St Thomas’ has The programme supports young mums to support I received from the Evelina London launched a new nursing have a healthy pregnancy, and improve their team and seemed very impressed by the associate degree with child’s health and development. service. Coventry University. The Duchess was greeted by delighted “When I was pregnant with Ramira my Nursing associates work staff and families before meeting young nurse, Debbie, helped me find suitable housing. alongside healthcare support parents who have been supported by the She would regularly visit us when Ramira was workers and nurses to Family Nurse Partnership. born, and we attended classes together at my provide care and treatment to Amina Deen, 23, spoke to The Duchess local children’s centre. patients in a variety of about the care she received during the first “I’m very thankful for the support I’ve healthcare settings. two years of her daughter Ramira’s life. received from the team. It’s given me the The role was created by Amina, from Elephant and Castle in south confidence and knowledge to be an even the Government in 2017 and east London, said: “The Duchess was lovely better parent.” is being introduced in hospitals across the country. The new two year course involves academic work and Patients get ‘green fingers’ in Brixton work placements at the Trust. Dame Eileen Sills, Chief garden are people who are staying at the Nurse at Guy’s and centre to receive intensive rehabilitation. St Thomas’, said: “The course They are actively encouraged to attend is a fantastic opportunity for weekly drop-in sessions alongside staff and people who want to pursue a visitors who live locally. career in nursing and Kevin Solomon, 54, has multiple experience working in one of sclerosis and was an inpatient at the the country’s largest and Pulross Centre in June. most prestigious NHS trusts. He said: “I live in a high rise flat off the “This new degree will help Old Kent Road so this garden project has ensure nursing associates are been so much fun. I know when I go home trained to the highest I'll be planting herbs for my windowsill.” possible standards and are All vegetables and herbs grown will either able to provide outstanding Patients and staff enjoy the garden be given away to patients and staff, or sold care to our patients.” at a regular market in the staff restaurant on The first cohort of students A new project is helping patients and staff the King’s College Hospital site. are due to begin the course in to get active in the garden at Guy’s and The project is funded by Guy’s and May 2020. St Thomas’ Pulross Centre in Brixton. St Thomas’ Charity and run by Lambeth Many of those benefitting from the GP Food Co-op.

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 5 SPOTLIGHT

Joe Parry meets a singing group that is improving both the health and the confidence of patients with respiratory conditions.

Win when you’re singing Singing for Breathing group

A new singing group at Guy’s and incredible social activity. It enables test showed my lungs were working at St Thomas’ is proving to be a breath of people to meet others with the same 79% efficiency, now they’re at 91%. On fresh air for patients with respiratory condition as them.” top of that I’ve made some great friends conditions. Madalene Clegg, from too.” The Singing for Breathing group Chislehurst in south east Wai Richardson-Lam, a launched earlier this year and has London, found her “Singing for clinical nurse specialist in proved such a hit that they’ve increased confidence hit rock bottom Breathing has the respiratory team, from one session a month to two. after getting pneumonia in approached Breathe Arts Breathe Arts Health Research piloted 2015. transformed my Health Research with the the programme and developed the The 71-year-old said: “I’ve confidence” idea of setting up the group with the Trust’s always loved group. respiratory team, to support dancing and She said: “Initially there breath control, increase “It’s not just tried to get back into it were only four patients who took part so energy and improve improved when I was feeling better, the group has come a long way. It’s confidence for patients with my breathing, but my breathing made it beneficial to their physical, respiratory conditions. too difficult. psychological and social wellbeing.” Up to 25 singers are led it’s improved “Singing for Breathing Hannah Dye, head of programmes at by Cleo Lane, who has 20 my life.” has transformed my Breathe Arts Health Research, said: years’ experience running confidence. I’ve just started “This ever growing group is a clear harmony groups and ballet classes again and I indicator of how eager patients with community choirs. couldn’t have done it without the group. respiratory conditions are to access Cleo said: “The benefits of singing for “It’s not just improved my breathing, opportunities which help their condition. those with lung conditions are endless. it’s improved my life.” “Collaborating with patients and staff “When you’re singing you’re naturally Alan Fearn, a retired IT teacher from to introduce an arts and health initiative bringing in air from lower down the lungs Dartford in Kent, suffers from a lung is a priority for how we work at Breathe which helps to build up your lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary – it makes our programme responsive to capacity. fibrosis, and has been coming to the the needs within the Trust.” “You’re also relaxing your muscles in group since it started. Breathe Arts Health Research runs a the upper half of your body which can The 72-year-old said: “Singing with performing arts programme across the get tense through shallow breathing. the group really helps with my breathing. Trust and is made possible with support “In addition to this, the group is an “Three years ago my lung function from Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity.

6 the GiST SPOTLIGHT

A couple tell Joe Parry why they decided to name their daughter after the hospital that saved her.

A heartfelt tribute Evalina ‘Evie’ Cox with Justin and Jo

A family have paid the ultimate tribute to swapped over. Known as TGA The machine continuously takes blood the team that saved their daughter’s life (transposition of the great arteries), this from the body, adds oxygen and removes – by naming her after the hospital that means that blood flows to the lungs and carbon dioxide and then returns it to the cared for her. picks up oxygen but is body. Evalina ‘Evie’ Cox then pumped back to Evie spent a further six weeks at underwent two open heart “We’ve had such the lungs instead of Evelina London and during this time surgeries and multiple incredible care travelling around the suffered further complications, including procedures to mend a body. a collapsed lung, seizures and a stroke. number of life-threatening from the staff Doctors also Justin, a PE teacher, said: “After heart defects, all before since before she discovered that she had everything that had already happened, to her second birthday. was even born, so multiple other complex then have a stroke, you wonder how Her parents Justin and we decided to heart problems, much she can take. Thankfully her brain Jo, from Margate in Kent, including only one function was not damaged and she made wanted to do something to name her Evalina.” coronary artery instead a full recovery.” thank the staff at Evelina of two. Without surgery, When Evie was 19 months old, she London Children’s Hospital Evie would not survive. underwent her second open heart who worked tirelessly to save her life. Jo gave birth at St Thomas’ Hospital so surgery which lasted nine hours. Jo, a hypnobirthing instructor, said: Evie could be assessed by experts as Jo said: “I can’t describe the emotions “We’ve had such incredible care from the soon as she was born. we felt after the operation was over. Since staff since before she was even born, so Her first surgery took place at just six Evie was born, I think we’d felt every we decided to name her Evalina. days old and, after her first open heart emotion possible.” “We added our own stamp by surgery at six weeks old, Evie suffered a Despite the major surgery, Evie changing the spelling slightly, and we call cardiac arrest. recovered so quickly that she was ready her Evie for short.” Doctors battled to save her and after to go home six days later. After something unusual was detected 77 minutes of CPR (cardiopulmonary Justin said: “Evie was back to her on her 20-week pregnancy scan, Jo was resuscitation), Evie’s heart began to beat normal, ridiculously energetic self just a referred to Evelina London. It was there again. week later. She’s now a happy and the couple were told the extent of their Once stabilised, she was put on an healthy two-year-old.” daughter’s serious heart defects. ECMO (Extra Corporeal Membrane Evie’s two main blood vessels, the Oxygenation) machine for five days, pulmonary artery and the aorta, were which does the job of the heart and lungs.

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 7 IN FOCUS

Maxine Hoeksma finds out how Guy’s and St Thomas’ Health Inclusion Team are making a difference to the lives of some of London’s most vulnerable people.

Helping the

“As well as looking after hidden their health needs, we advise people on issues such as housing (L-R) Dr Polly Nyiri, Dr Shazia Munir, and Dr Uzma Mahmood and where they can get legal advice, food

Dashini Sukumaran is one of around of Sri Lanka and vouchers and asylum seekers are a 4,500 people cared for by Guy's and Dr Mahmood never hesitated clothing.” hidden population St Thomas' community Health Inclusion to listen to my story. who have difficulty Team. “Eventually I was diagnosed with post- accessing healthcare. Made up of admin staff, allied health traumatic stress and I still find it hard to “We see patients with conditions they professionals, case workers, GPs, high remember things.” might be unaware of, and many with intensity user leads and nurses, the team The 39-year-old added: "The team serious mental health conditions, offers drop-in services for homeless helped me to try to manage these sometimes as a result of ill-treatment or people, refugees, asylum seekers and difficult things. They ring to remind me to a traumatic experience in their home those with drug and alcohol addiction. take my medication or call if I don't turn country. The clinics are held in GP surgeries, up for an appointment – they are “We like to think of ourselves as a one- day centres, hostels, and drug and wonderful.” stop shop for our patients. As well as alcohol centres across Lambeth, The Health Inclusion Team offer looking after their health needs, we Southwark and Lewisham. appointments with access to advise people on issues such as housing Dashini said: “I was homeless and interpretation services, in-depth health and where they can get legal advice, food thought I couldn't register with a GP. The checks to ensure vaccinations are up-to- vouchers and clothing. Refugee Council put me in touch with the date, and screening for diseases such as “We also have great links with other health inclusion clinic in Brixton. I'm so tuberculosis and hepatitis. organisations so we can signpost thankful for their care. Dr Shazia Munir, clinical lead for GP patients to the most appropriate services "I'd had problems in my home country refugee services, said: “Refugees and for them.”

8 the GiST IN FOCUS

Kirit Sehmbi, homelessness nurse Frank Cooper with a patient Support on our streets A listening ear Homelessness nurse, Kirit Sehmbi, supports people Frank Cooper, a high intensity service user project sleeping rough and the hidden homeless sleeping on lead, supports vulnerable people who frequently visit people's sofas. the emergency department (A&E), often as a result of Research commissioned by the Greater London health anxiety. Authority found 8,855 people slept rough in the capital He works closely with patients to understand and between April 2018 and March 2019, an 18% increase address the underlying issues, and to help them on the previous year. manage their concerns and become less reliant on the Together with a team of 15 nurses, Kirit provides a emergency services. range of care including same day health checks, In a single year, a group of just 520 people attended screening for infectious diseases, wound care, the emergency department a combined total of 3,651 contraception, vaccinations and support to register times, leading to 1,081 admissions to hospital. with a GP. Frank said: “If you feel lonely and isolated you can The nurses base themselves in hostels, day centres, become anxious and stressed especially if you are at specialist GP surgeries and provide street outreach. home most of the day and you're concerned about a They also work closely with other services such as health problem, like a heart or stomach condition. homelessness charities and the mobile dental team. “We work more intensely with patients, go round to Kirit said: “It’s about trust and familiarity. We see see them, speak to them every day and reassure and people who have been on the streets for several years encourage them. and have not seen a health professional. “By supporting someone to get out of the house – “We give them a general health check, sometimes in effect doing the things family members might do if coming across conditions like frost bite from long-term they were there – we can begin to make people feel exposure to the harsh conditions of living on the street. more confident to cope with their anxiety and reduce “We don’t make judgements, we give them all the the need to go to A&E.” time they need and are here for them when they feel ready.”

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 9 IN FOCUS

Kelly Cook meets the dedicated volunteers who are helping older patients to get active on the wards at St Thomas’ Hospital.

Unsung heroes

Carrol Beckwith with volunteer Elisa Canas

“This could be by producing a piece of and crafts, had quizzes and visited the art during a conversation, taking them to Chapel and gardens.” the cafeteria for a cup of tea, or talking Julian Scott started volunteering six Carrol Beckwith with volunteers Elisa Canas about a film. months ago after and Julian Scott “These simple things graduating with a degree can make a huge “When you sit down in biomedical science. An aspiring doctor and a voiceover artist difference by lifting the The 21-year-old said: “I are among the 26 activity volunteers who patient’s mood and with somebody and wanted to give back to give up their time each week to help giving them the make them laugh the community while patients get up and moving on the Older motivation to get out of or smile it makes gaining experience on a Persons Unit. bed. It benefits the you feel like you’re ward as I’m planning to Set up a year ago thanks to support patient, their carers and go into medicine. from Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity, the our ward staff doing something “When you sit down activity programme has involved music enormously.” meaningful.” with somebody and make sessions, bingo, themed parties and even Carroll Beckwith was them laugh or smile it a visit from a Pearly King and Queen. admitted to hospital with a leg ulcer and makes you feel like you’re doing Katie Roff, volunteer and activity spent three weeks on Anne Ward. something meaningful.” coordinator, said: “The average age of our The 60-year-old said: “The volunteers Elisa Canas, a voiceover artist, has patients is 83 and many have dementia, have made a lot of difference to my time been volunteering once a week since the which means they can spend long here, they’ve cheered me up and taken activity programme was launched. periods of time in hospital. the time to sit and listen. The 35-year-old said “Volunteering is “They have often lived an incredible life “They are all polite, kind and caring very rewarding and I really look forward to so it’s the job of our volunteers to draw and nothing is too much trouble. seeing the patients. that out. “We’ve played board games, made arts “One of the best things we have on the

10 the GiST IN FOCUS

Volunteers Helen Mansfield and Elisa Canas with Katie Roff

Fast facts • More than 750 volunteers provide around 33,000 hours Sonia Laing of their time each year • There are 80 different An expert patient volunteering roles across the Trust Living with a long term health condition can have a big impact on someone’s life, both physically and Our volunteers are aged • mentally. between 18 and 90 Volunteers are helping patients to manage their condition closer to home through the Expert Patient Programme, which is run by King’s Health Partners at community sites across Lambeth. ward is the record player. Music is such a The six week course is available for people with a great way of transporting people back in long term condition, such as diabetes, cancer, time to when they were younger. fibromyalgia, depression or arthritis. “The stories we get to hear are It covers a range of topics including managing amazing and it’s a privilege to learn about difficult emotions, healthy eating, physical activity their lives.” and sleep. Daniela Davcevska, deputy ward sister Sonia Laing became a volunteer facilitator for the on Anne Ward, said: “The volunteers are programme after benefiting from the course herself. very valuable on our wards as they free The 58-year-old said: “It was a life saver for me up the nurses’ time so they can because I met people going through the same issues. concentrate on clinically unwell patients. “At the end of the six weeks I didn’t want to leave, I “Evidence suggests that patients who still had the same health problems but with a are able to get out of their bed and move different outlook. around while they are in hospital maintain “Volunteering has given me skills for life and I find more of their muscle strength, are less it very rewarding. I love meeting new people and it likely to get an infection, and tend to keeps me active.” return home sooner.” To find out more, visit www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/volunteering

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 11 IN FOCUS

Evelina London has been caring for children and young people for A little star 150 years. Rebecca Leddy and Jessica Law find out more.

150 years of Evelina London

Many things have changed since Evelina than 95,000 children and young people a Hospital for Sick Children first opened its year in hospital and the community. doors in 1869, but one thing has always Marian Ridley, Evelina London Director, Marina Yaqobi with matron Carmen Barton remained the same – a commitment to said: “We are here for our children and provide specialist care for children. young people every step of the way – Marina Yaqobi spent eight months at Most hospitals at the time did not before birth, throughout childhood and as Evelina London receiving treatment for a allow patients with infectious fevers, or they become young adults. Our experts serious lung problem and kidney failure. children under two years old, because are there for when things go wrong, to The eight-year-old underwent an they were not expected to survive. give the best treatments in the world, operation to unblock her veins, spent two But staff at Evelina fought to overturn 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” months in the paediatric intensive care these rules, and by 1900 more than half To find out more, visit unit and had dialysis every night for the of admissions were babies and toddlers. www.evelinalondon.nhs.uk/ThenAndNow eight months. The four-storey building was described After building up her strength, she was as having ‘the very latest design finally able to receive her dad’s kidney in concepts’, ‘with no expense spared to September and left the hospital a month make this a model hospital’. Fast facts later. The large open wards were flooded In 1869 when the hospital first Marina said: “I used to feel very unwell, with light, scattered with children’s toys • opened, there were only 30 like I couldn’t breathe properly, but now and included a playroom. beds and 300 children were I’ve got my daddy’s kidney and it’s Now, 150 years on, today’s hospital admitted in the first year amazing. I eat everything and I feel better remains focussed on the needs of young than ever. people and was also designed with the • Evelina Hospital for Sick “When I grow up I want to be a nurse, a help of children. Children pre-dates the NHS doctor, a play specialist, a scientist and a Its themed floors have brightly which was established in 1948 shop keeper.” coloured wards with dedicated play During World War Two there was After spending so long at the hospital, areas, and even a helter skelter. • extensive damage to the Marina made friends with all the staff – In the early days, visiting by parents hospital building but no lives from doctors and nurses to housekeepers was limited to certain hours and was not were lost and caterers. allowed on the same day as an operation. Carmen Barton, a matron on Beach By the 1970s, the hospital allowed • In 1949 the hospital school Ward, said: “Marina had a rollercoaster of parental visiting every day and went on to opened and was one of the first a journey while she was here so seeing establish a cubicle for mother and child, of its kind in London her finally go home was very special.” which was the first in London. Evelina London now cares for more

12 the GiST 1895

2019

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 13 THE INTERVIEW

Sustainability manager Amy Butterworth Fernandes tells Simon Ellery about all the things Guy’s and St Thomas’ is doing to become more environmentally friendly.

e biggest challenge of our time

Why is being a sustainable Tell us about the new alternatives. A group of staff are also QTrust important? Qconsolidation centre examining how to reduce single-use plastic items when treating our patients. Being a sustainable organisation means The Trust currently receives up to 160 making sure that Guy’s and St Thomas’ deliveries a day, from clinical supplies to runs efficiently and uses resources wisely. bed linen – much of which is stored on site What can people This benefits our patients, staff and local for future use. Now those supplies will be Qdo to help? communities, as well as reducing our delivered to a consolidation hub in Dartford, We have excellent public transport links at impact on the environment for future close to the M25, and only the supplies that both our hospital sites, but if your only option generations. are needed on that day will be transported is to drive, then please respect our no-idling I joined the Trust in the summer and was to the hospitals. We predict that this will signs. These were designed by children at pleased to see the progress that was reduce the 36,000 annual truck deliveries Evelina London and are placed around our already being made. Combined heat and to our sites by 90%, and remove the 2,000 car parks. power (CHP) engines were installed in 2008 tonnes of cardboard that normally comes We have 700 bike racks across our sites and produce enough electricity to meet half with our supplies. We’re also hoping to pilot and regular bike safety checks and security of our energy needs each year, which has an electric delivery vehicle from January tagging sessions. We have also created saved us nearly £3 million in energy costs. 2020 to help cut air pollution. healthier air and green spaces maps, which have been designed to show you the least How are you How are you reducing polluted walking routes and clean spaces Qreducing air pollution? Qplastic waste? around our hospitals. Toxic air pollution in London is a big problem We have introduced four water bottle so we were delighted that the Mayor of refill stations in our hospitals, which we What about London, Sadiq Khan, chose to launch the hope will contribute to reducing the Qthe future? world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone at unnecessary use and disposal of 150,000 Climate change is the biggest challenge of our Evelina London Children’s Hospital. The vast plastic bottles every year. As one of the time so we have to continue to make changes. majority of vehicles used by the Trust meet largest NHS trusts in the country, which Our multi-award winning sustainability the new standard and we’re committed to includes a dental hospital, a high volume of programme has had a big impact on driving sourcing environmentally friendly vehicles plastic cups are used in clinical settings, as efficiency and reducing waste at the Trust, but in the future. well as in our many catering outlets. We we can always do more. We’re also trialling cargo bikes to have a number of initiatives which aim to We’re working on a new strategy for 2020, transport blood for testing between our reduce the eight million disposable plastic which will be in line with the United Nation’s hospitals, which replaces an hourly cups, including the holders and lids that we 2030 vision that calls on all countries to motorbike or van courier service, cutting use. We’re in the process of replacing these promote economic growth while protecting pollution and journey times. on our wards with china or other the environment.

14 the GiST Amy Butterworth Fernandes, sustainability manager

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 15 THE LEADING EDGE

Anna Perman finds out about a study that is using a ‘bike on a bed’ to help diagnose heart disease.

Patients get on their bike for research Dr Phuoc Duong with a patient using the bike during an MRI scan

breathlessness and difficulty with the study. exercise. Aaron, from Epsom in Surrey, said: “I Dr Phuoc Duong, a clinical research got involved in research because when I fellow conducting the study, said: “People was young my parents were worried about with the condition are born with one me. I hope this study can give that support pumping chamber in the heart instead of to other families so they won’t have to two. worry about their little ones. “They tend to develop symptoms when “Taking part has helped me to they are exercising, and unfortunately a understand my heart condition more than lot of the tests at present are done I used to, and given my family that extra without the patient taking part in an bit of support.” Aaron Hardwick, his partner Faith activity. Dr Kuberan Pushparajah, and their son Jonathan “This means a consultant paediatric doctors cannot see cardiologist at Evelina It is well known that cycling is a great way what changes occur “Taking part has London, is supervising the to stay fit and keep your heart healthy. to cause the helped me to study. Now researchers at Guy’s and symptoms until it’s understand my heart He said: “We are in a St Thomas’ are trying to find out if it has too late and the condition more than unique position at the Trust even more benefits – by using a bike fixed patient is at much in that we are able to follow to a bed to help diagnose heart disease greater risk.” I used to.” a patient’s journey from more accurately. Doctors hope that before they’re born, by The technology allows patients to cycle understanding what detecting heart disease in during an MRI (magnetic resonance happens to the heart during exercise will the womb, to adult life. imaging) scan, so doctors can get help them to treat problems earlier and “This means we can get to know our detailed images of the heart during develop more effective treatments. patients and give them really great care. exercise, which is often when patients are Aaron Hardwick was born with “From a research point of view, this most likely to experience symptoms. hypoplastic left heart syndrome and was study means we can really understand The bike is being used in a study of treated at Evelina London. heart conditions in incredible detail and hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which is The 21-year-old is now being cared for learn more so that we can help future a birth defect that affects normal blood by the adult cardiology team at patients.” flow through the heart and can cause St Thomas’ Hospital and is taking part in

16 the GiST MY STORY

Isabelle Everest became a judo champion after receiving pioneering surgery at Evelina London Children’s Hospital. Nzinga Cotton finds out more.

From the operating table to judo star Isabelle Everest and Mr Michail Kokkinakis The surgeon Mr Michail Kokkinakis The patient Isabelle Everest

“Isabelle has been my patient for five years. She “When I first met Mr Kokkinakis I was completely has cerebral palsy, which affects movement and dependent on my wheelchair to get around. coordination and is caused by a problem with He recommended that I have ‘guided growth’ surgery the brain that occurs before, during or soon after which sounded very frightening at the time, but I birth. overcame my fear because the team were so caring. Due to the condition, Isabelle’s lower limb After the most recent surgery I spent two months in muscles were short, her feet were curved full plaster casts and had a year of intensive inwards and she wasn’t able to stand up straight. physiotherapy. This made it extremely difficult for Isabelle to My feet are now flat and my knees are straight, which walk and get around without support. means I can get around more easily with my walking In February 2014, Isabelle underwent leading frame. It also means I can participate in judo without a edge ‘guided growth’ surgery to straighten her wheelchair. knees. I developed an interest in the sport from my parents, During the surgery, I inserted metalwork to who run a judo club in East Sussex, and have been the front part of her lower thighs, which competing since the age of five. straightened her knees over time. When I was little, my parents told me I could do Two years later, Isabelle had further surgery to remove the anything I want, but I would just have to find a different way of metalwork from her knees, lengthen her thigh and shin muscles doing it, and that’s exactly what I’ve done. and realign her feet. I became the Pan Disability European Judo Champion in She then had intensive physiotherapy to strengthen her weak 2017, just a year after my surgeries and I retained my title in muscles and increase her mobility. 2018. If Isabelle hadn’t had the surgeries she would have been Unfortunately, this year I came away with silver. I will be completely dependent on a wheelchair to get around. competing again next year so hopefully I will be able to win gold Evelina London was one of the first hospitals in the UK to start again. using this ‘guided growth’ procedure and Isabelle was one of the For the last few years I have attended training sessions for first children to have it done at our hospital. surgeons with Mr Kokkinakis. I speak about the surgeries I’ve I now train other surgeons how to do the procedure using had and how to talk to children with disabilities. Isabelle as an example. So, you see I’m not just the girl in a wheelchair, I’m not just It has been an absolute joy getting to know Isabelle and her the disabled child, the one with cerebral palsy. I am me, Isabelle family and it’s really pleasing to know that we have helped her Everest, Pan Disability European Judo Champion and one day – improve her quality of life and become a judo champion.” Dr Isabelle Everest, paediatric specialist.”

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 17 TRUST LIFE

Fiona Moore, hand therapist, tells Kelly Cook how she provides support to patients with injuries and conditions affecting their hands, wrists and upper limb.

A helping hand

Fiona Moore, hand therapist

Our hands are incredible parts of the fractures, tendon and soft tissue injuries, heal so I take off the dressing, clean the body that allow us to carry out everyday nerve injuries or ligament problems. wound and speak to him about the activities, from tying our shoelaces to Last year we saw 46,159 patients, from importance of scar management. Scar driving a car. babies through to the elderly and tissue is like glue and sticks to the soft Imagine how you’d feel if something everyone in between. tissue structures underneath, which can went wrong and you couldn’t use your stop the tendons moving. We discuss a hands. :00am – I see around 16 patients a range of exercises before I dress the I’m one of the 31 hand therapists 8day. The first person has wrist pain wound and make him a splint to wear. working across Guy’s and St Thomas’ to after injuring it at the gym and was help people regain the use of their hand referred by his GP. I diagnose a ligament :00pm – I see a patient who has after an accident, sports injury or long injury and make him a splint to wear, 12 Dupuytren’s disease, a common term chronic condition. which protects his hand to stop further condition that causes one or more fingers We are a team of occupational damage. to become permanently bent towards the therapists, physiotherapists and therapy palm. He’s had an operation to release his assistants, working closely with the :00am – A barman who injured his bent finger so hand therapy is now an orthopaedic and plastic surgeons. 9 thumb on glass arrives for his first important part of recovering his We provide rehabilitation for people appointment. He had surgery a few days movement and function. with hand disorders, whether from birth ago to repair his flexor tendons, which Our hands naturally curl when we sleep defects, carpal tunnel syndrome and connect the muscles of the forearm to so I make him a splint to wear at night to arthritis, or because they have the bones in the fingers and thumb. keep his fingers straight. experienced a range of injuries including The injury will take around 12 weeks to

18 the GiST FUNDRAISING

Why I fundraise

Fiona Moore with a patient

Liège to London riders

A man who survived testicular cancer has taken on a mammoth 300 mile bike ride to raise money for clinical research at Guy’s Cancer. Gary Saunders, from Sevenoaks in Kent, was in his early 30s when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2011. He said: “Those twelve months were rough but I’m here today because of treatment that is only available due to research, which is Fiona Moore and her colleague lifesaving but also very expensive. “Thankfully life got back to normal for me but with a new perspective and appreciation :00pm – A woman who had an accident for the work of all of those in healthcare.” 2 with a blender has damaged her extensor The 41-year-old recently organised a 300 tendons on the back of her hand. I measure her mile, three day cycle from the Belgian city of strength and grip and we talk about the Liège to the Cancer Centre at Guy's. activities that are meaningful to her. She enjoys He was joined by 17 other riders, including cycling so we replicate holding the handle bars friends, family, other cancer survivors, and of a bike. Dr Deborah Enting, Professor James Spicer and Dr Simon Hughes. :00pm – A man who cut his hand on broken Gary said: “Our mix of ages and 4 glass while washing up is back for a follow- backgrounds is a reminder that cancer up appointment. I use therapy putty to help build doesn’t discriminate, and it can affect anyone up his endurance. It comes in different resistance at any time.” levels and can be squeezed, stretched, twisted or Money raised will fund two clinical research pinched to help strengthen the hand and wrist. fellows at Guy’s Cancer, who will carry out scientific research into treatments for :00pm – It’s the end of another busy day. urological cancers. 5 The best part of my job is seeing someone’s Want to create your own fundraising event? progression. Helping them to get back to the To find out more, visit activities they enjoy and giving them confidence www.supportgstt.org.uk/get-involved to socialise again is really rewarding.

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 19 FOUNDATION TRUST LIFE

Meet the governors A warm welcome to our new non- clinical staff governors, Rachel Professor Lucilla Poston and Councillor Alice Macdonald Williams and Laura James, who explain how they are using their roles as stakeholder governors were elected in August 2019. Rachel to shine a light on research and patient transport. is a senior health records officer in the health records department, while Laura is a graphic design and communications specialist in the Essentia marketing and engagement team.

The governors are your elected representatives and are keen to hear your views. If you have a question, comment or idea please email [email protected] or call 020 7188 7346 . To read the governor newsletter, Listening line, visit www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/ governors

Professor Lucilla Poston Councillor Alice Macdonald

Governors play an important role at Professor Poston, who lives in additional resources and Guy’s and St Thomas’, acting as a link Clapham, said: “I do a lot of work complimentary skills to the Council of between the Foundation Trust members involving the Trust and university so it’s Governors.” and the Board of Directors. been useful for me to find out more Alice, who is also a school governor, The Council of Governors is made up about the management of our hospitals has been looking into ways to improve of eight patient, eight public and how they work. patient transport and recently met with and six staff governors. “I’m able to offer a the Deputy Mayor of London to discuss There are also nine research and teaching the issue. stakeholder governors who “e Trust is also point of view, and can She said: “Unlike taxis, patient represent the interests of a huge employer keep the governors up-to- transport vehicles cannot use bus lanes our local partner and has a big date on recent research in London which can delay people organisations. impact on the activities that involve the getting to their appointments at the This includes local Trust and its patients.” hospital, causing unnecessary authorities, Clinical local economy.” Councillor Alice discomfort and distress. Commissioning Groups, Macdonald, who “I’m going to be following up this NHS England, King's represents Newington point with the Mayor’s office, our College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, ward for Southwark Council, was assembly members and Transport for London South Bank University, King’s appointed a stakeholder governor last London to explore how we can make College London and South London and year. these journeys more efficient for Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. She said: “Health and wellbeing is so patients.” Professor Lucilla Poston has been a important to people in Southwark. stakeholder governor for two years and Being on the Council of Governors is a was nominated by King’s College great opportunity to ensure that local To become a member London. services are meeting their needs. call 0800 731 0319 , email She is Head of Department for “The Trust is also a huge employer [email protected] or visit Women and Children’s Health, and and has a big impact on the local www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/ Head of the School of Life Course economy. My role enables me to membership Sciences at King’s College London. represent local people while bringing

20 the GiST HISTORY CORNER

Did you know that 2020 is the bicentenary of Fast facts Florence Nightingale? • Although we think of Florence Nightingale as a great British To kick off the celebrations, heroine, she was actually born in Ciorsdan Glass Florence, Italy and Nzinga Cotton explore • In the early 1850s, she had a pet some facts about baby owl called The Lady with the Lamp. Athena, which she carried around in her pocket. The owl has been preserved and is Getting on display at the Florence Nightingale Museum to know Flo • Florence had significant political influence and, in the 1870s, she worked with the government to Throughout 2020, Guy’s and St Thomas’ outstanding nurses and midwives, and push for legislation to significantly will be celebrating the 200th birthday of involves them completing a programme of improve sanitation Florence Nightingale. work, which is accredited by King’s Born on 12 May 1820, Florence College London. became the founder of modern nursing. Once completed they receive a badge, During the Crimean War she improved certificate and have the honour P

conditions at a British base hospital, of being known as a i c t which resulted in far fewer soldiers dying ‘Nightingale Nurse’. u r e

from their injuries. The Trust is also supporting c o u

This led to Queen Victoria awarding the Nightingale Challenge, r t e

Florence a jewelled brooch in 1855, which encourages hospitals s y

o

designed by her husband Prince Albert, across the world to provide f

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as a “mark of esteem and gratitude for leadership and development o r e

her devotion towards the Queen's brave training for 20,000 young n c e

soldiers”. nurses and midwives by 2020. N i In 1860, Florence established the first The campaign calls on large g h t i

professional nursing school in the world employers of nurses to give at n g a

at St Thomas’ Hospital, which raised the least 20 young nurses and l e

reputation of nursing as a profession. midwives the skills they need M u s

She also influenced the design of the to play an even more influential e u

wards at the hospital by proposing full- role in delivering healthcare. m height windows to provide better light Dame Eileen Sills, Chief and ventilation. Nurse at Guy’s and Florence’s achievements were truly St Thomas’, said: “We honour Want to be a Nightingale Nurse? remarkable. She was awarded the first and respect our heritage which The Florence Nightingale Museum has worked Royal Red Cross, and was the first woman is at the heart of modern with nurses at Guy’s and St Thomas’ to launch a inducted into the Order of Merit. nursing, and we are very proud new exhibition, Family Corner. On 13 August 1910, at the age of 90, of the legacy Florence Children can dress up as a nurse and find out she died in her sleep in Mayfair, London. Nightingale left us. from the Trust’s Nightingale Nurse award- To honour Florence’s legacy and “In 2020, we will be holding winners what they like most about their jobs. support the development of nurses and activities throughout the year to To find out more, visit midwives, Guy’s and St Thomas’ has thank and celebrate our www.florence-nightingale.co.uk/bicentenary launched The Nightingale Nurse Award. wonderful nurses and to honour It recognises the Trust’s most Florence’s amazing legacy.”

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 21 TRUST LIFE

Behind the scenes Liz O’Sullivan , arts manager.

What does always looking for ways to innovate. Q your role involve? We recently used magnetic wallpaper I bring art into our hospitals in some of our children’s wards. This A and community settings, was designed with young patients in either as part of a building project or mind and allows them to personalise by commissioning standalone pieces their spaces. They are sometimes to mark special events or milestones. away from home for a while so this I work with architects, engineers, artists, can help them feel settled. designers, along with clinical colleagues and patients, to develop environments What’s been your that improve the experience of our Q favourite project? There are so many things I’ve patients. There is a lot of evidence that loved working on. Art can shows how art positively impacts on A What could you inspire, calm and distract us, which patient care. Q not do without? is so important when you’re in The support from Guy’s and How do you incorporate hospital. In our rare diseases centre, A St Thomas’ Charity is Q art into buildings? where patients often can’t go invaluable. They support many of With any clinical building project, outside for long periods of time, we our projects and enable us to design A there are lots of rules around the developed artwork to bring the spaces that are patient led. In materials we use, and these have to outside in by using LED lights in a addition to the support for new comply with health and safety forest setting mural. Getting the artwork, they also hold an amazing requirements. This provides an extra chance to bring things like this to life art collection, which brings art into challenge to our projects but we’re has been a dream. even more areas around the Trust.

Cancer starts when gene changes From the make one cell, or a few cells, begin to grow and multiply too much. frontline This genetic damage usually happens over the course of someone’s Kati Paalosalo-Harris , life, but in a minority of cases a faulty lead cancer family history cancer gene is inherited from a parent. When I meet a new patient we draw nurse specialist . out their family tree and go through their level of risk. The cancer risk assessment service is I talk to them about breast and bowel for people who have a family history of awareness, offer advice on lifestyle and breast, ovarian, bowel or prostate recommend screening. cancer, and who are concerned about A small number of my patients may their own likelihood of developing the require a referral to the genetics clinic to disease. discuss further options. My job is to assess their risk and help My job is very varied – I never know put it into perspective. accounts for many cases of cancer. In what worries someone will have when Nowadays there’s a lot of information fact, this often isn’t the case and is they walk through the door. about health on the internet and in the responsible for only 5% to 10% of all I enjoy the one-to-one relationship I media, but these sources can also breast and bowel cancers. have with each person, and it’s contribute to misunderstanding. Most people don’t realise how rewarding to be able to use my medical One widespread misconception is common cancer is, but one in two of us background as a nurse to give vital that an inherited faulty cancer gene will develop it at some point in our lives. information and reassurance.

22 the GiST TRUST LIFE

What’s On Competition Free public tours 10 December (weekly event) Special Event: Mon –Fri 3.30pm, Sat –Sun Picturing Life and Death 11.30am and 3.30pm on the Operating Table Florence Nightingale Museum (after hours art session) Call 020 7188 4400 or visit 7–8.30pm florence-nightingale.co.uk Old Operating Theatre Until 19 January 2020 Museum and Herb Garret We have a meal for two at Florentine restaurant and bar, Free exhibition: Spanish Flu 9a St Thomas Street in Park Plaza London Waterloo. To be in with a chance London SE1 9RY Florence Nightingale Museum of winning, simply complete the wordsearch below. Call 020 7188 4400 or visit For tickets call florence-nightingale.co.uk 020 7188 2679 G E C B A S H K H G E Q or email 5 December [email protected] L U O Y M H M V O D C M Friends of Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals 1–31 January V Y Y A L T S X B E O Y book sale and Dry January Christmas Market (alcohol awareness) G P A R T I E S L C M D 11am –3pm Central Hall, 8/22 January N N D M F W M E C O M R St Thomas’ Hospital Friends of Guy’s and 5 December St Thomas’ Hospitals I Y I F H L B A T R U A Carols by Candlelight book sale 6.45 –7.45pm 10am –3pm R Y L X I R S G F A N T St Margaret’s Church Birdsong Corridor A R O G A I M O O T I B St Margaret Street St Thomas’ Hospital Westminster SW1P 3JX 4 February H E H T O L D E R I T J For tickets visit World Cancer Day www.supportevelina.org.uk/ S T I N C S E P C O Y B events/carols-by-candlelight S O Y T I S O R E N E G Free film screenings: N S E I T I V I T S E F MediCinema ([email protected]) shows the latest releases for patients and staff Celebration Family Holiday Parties Guy’s Tuesdays, 1.30pm and Thursdays, 7pm Community Festivities Lights Relaxing Decorations Generosity Occasion Sharing St Thomas’ Saturdays, 7pm and Tuesdays, 7.30pm Evelina London screenings on Wednesdays, 6.30pm Name Free lunchtime concerts: Address Mondays 1–2pm, Central Hall, St Thomas’ Telephone Wednesdays 1–2pm, Atrium 1, Guy’s The Performing Arts Programme is delivered by Breathe Arts Email Health Research and made possible with support from Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity Send your entry by 10 January 2020 to the GiST competition, Communications Department, 4th floor, Staircase C, South Raise money for your hospitals Wing, St Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7EH; or you can email communications @gstt.nhs.uk . and community services The winners will be selected at random and notified within seven days of the For all the latest news about our amazing fundraisers and draw. The result will be final and we will not enter into any correspondence how you can support Guy’s, St Thomas’ and Evelina London, regarding the competition winners. The prize is non-transferable. Your name and details will be collected solely for the purposes of this follow @SupportGSTT competition and in order to be able to contact the winner and send them and like facebook.com/SupportGSTT the prize. By entering this competition, you give your consent for us to use the data you provide in this way. and facebook.com/SupportEvelina

www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk 23 Simply Organize d

NHS 111

A&E