Heartbeat: Sprinkling kindness during COVID-19 one goody bag at a time

July 15, 2020

One of the reoccurring themes to come out of the tragedy and chaos that has been left by COVID-19 has been that of kindness. Time and again, we have heard stories about those who have gone above and beyond to show kindness and compassion to our hardworking frontline colleagues. One such person is our very own apprentice, Phebe Thompson.

Speaking to Heartbeat, she explained: “Since this pandemic started I saw hospitals being sent a lot of things from food and drink parcels to goody bags and care packages. As I work within the Trust, I wanted to do something to give back and help my colleagues who have been working so incredibly hard.

“My mom raised money for the goody bags through friends and family donating money. We were overwhelmed with the amount of money that we received, it was a lot more than we first thought we would raise. With the funds, we managed to put together goody bags for McCarthy, Eliza Tinsley and Henderson wards at Rowley Regis Hospital. I’m pleased that with the support of our family and friends we’ve been able to do a kind deed.”

Speaking of her motivation behind joining the apprenticeship programme, Phebe shared how a personal experience led her to this career. “One of the main reasons I came into this job role was because I previously cared for my grandad who at the time was terminally ill. I joined the apprenticeship programme when I realised I wanted a career in the NHS.

“I thought this would be the best option for me as I’m able to learn on the job, gain new skills whilst developing my practical and theoretical knowledge. I aim to complete the nursing associate scheme and to further develop my career from there.”