Congratulations to A&E Sister, Katie Allinson, on her recent Star Award win. Katie was nominated by Clinical Educator, Leanne Grice, for the incredible respect she showed a bereaved family. Her nomination includes what a member of the family said about Katie and reads:
"Katie was the nurse on duty on May Bank Holiday Monday when our grandad, Glen, had been admitted overnight from a nursing home into the resuscitation area of the Emergency Department (ED). By the morning, he had been moved into a cubicle, and we knew we were approaching the final moments of his life.
"While no family would choose to say goodbye to a loved one in an ED cubicle, Katie’s care transformed what could have been an impersonal and clinical experience into one of dignity, compassion, and humanity. Katie went truly above and beyond to support both Glen and our family. She ensured we were given time together as a family, creating space for us to be present in those precious final moments. Her calm, kind and reassuring presence made an incredibly difficult situation feel supported and cared for.
"In particular, Katie showed exceptional compassion by helping us create lasting memories. She took Glen’s fingerprints, something we will treasure forever, and gently enabled me to provide his final hygiene care. This was done with sensitivity, respect, and encouragement, allowing me to care for my grandad in a deeply personal and meaningful way.
"Katie ensured I felt supported throughout, never rushed, and always respected our wishes. Her actions demonstrated what it truly means to put people first - not only attending to clinical needs, but recognising the emotional, cultural, and human importance of end-of-life care.
"She gave us dignity in grief, compassion in loss, and memories we will carry with us always. We will never forget the difference Katie made on one of the hardest days of our lives. She is a true credit to the profession and embodies everything these awards stand for."