Lasting memorial for lives lost to the pandemic
A memorial celebration took place in the summer of 2022 at Bodmin Hospital’s gardens to pay tribute to Garner Ward patients who died during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the 9 patients who died with COVID.
In the sunshine, staff, patients, and their loved ones came together, along with our Spiritual and Pastoral team, to give thanks to all the patients who have made Garner Ward such a special place.
“It was a very moving day. We were delighted to be joined by many family members and 2 former patients who survived COVID-19 and have since moved back home. It was great to see them so well, and they both obviously enjoyed meeting again in these happier circumstances.” Dr Andrew Greenhill, Lead Principal Psychologist for Garner Ward
Included in the celebration was an afternoon tea with Cornish pasties, and the chance to unveil a memorial picnic table, plaque, and apple trees in the hospital gardens. These new garden additions were bought by the charitable donations from the family of patients on the ward.
“It was also important to thank the nursing staff and health care assistants during our celebrations for performing above and beyond all expectations during the COVID-19 pandemic.” continued Dr Greenhill. “It was a very difficult and sad time, which we will not forget. The people who worked on the ward put their health and wellbeing at risk and worked countless hours in incredibly difficult and unprecedented circumstances. They cannot be thanked enough.”