Yesterday, five colleagues from the Royal Devon attended the special service at Westminster Abbey, held to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NHS.

Edith Chinnah, Lynsey Southern, Anne Mudzingwa, Kiera(n) Loft, and Becky Harman were nominated by the Trust to attend the event, which saw an address by NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard and testimonies from fellow NHS colleagues, including Dame Elizabeth Anionwu OM, the UK’s first sickle cell nurse.

Nominated representatives from NHS Trusts were at the service to celebrate and reflect on our National Health Service, which was also attended by senior government and political leaders, and by Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.

After the service, there was an opportunity to meet and greet colleagues from other NHS Trusts and to interact with dignitaries.

Edith Chinnah, Upper GI Clinical Nurse Specialist, said: “It was a privilege and an honour to have been chosen to represent the Royal Devon at this special service to celebrate and gives thanks to our NHS and all those who have contributed to her services. Thank you to the Trust for nominating us and I hope we made everyone proud.”

Anne Mudzingwa, Ward Sister, said: “It was such an honour to celebrate with colleagues from across the country. We had time to reflect on the achievements made today and in the past, as well as celebrate the diversity and acknowledge that we all make a valuable contribution. I was grateful for the prayers said for those who worked through the pandemic, as many still feel the effects emotionally today.”

Kiera(n) Loft, Specialist Optometrist, said: “The testimonies provided good reflection on the amazing accomplishments of the NHS over the last 75 years, whilst also acknowledging the difficulties we currently face. The message that the NHS is a manifestation of kindness and civility was a really important take-home for me, and rings so true. We all work in the NHS because of our belief in treating all humans with kindness and compassion, and giving them the help they need when they need it. We must all remember this in these difficult times.”

Lynsey Southern, Knowledge & Library Services Manager, said: “Yesterday's service was unforgettable. I felt immense pride representing our Trust with four dedicated colleagues, surrounded by the weight of decades of hard work and innovation. We were reminded of the NHS's role beyond healthcare, and its importance in our society. The NHS, with its heartbeat of compassion and innovative drive, remains a beacon of hope 75 years on. It mirrors our nation at its best, proving we're stronger together.”

From L to R: Becky Harman, Lynsey Southern, Edith Chinnah, Kiera(n) Loft, and Anne Mudzingwa