Boxer Shannon Ryan thanks West Herts NHS ‘heroes’ during Black History Month
Posted: 16 October 2024
Local boxing superstar Shannon Ryan has shared a heartfelt tribute to the ‘unwavering dedication’ of staff members at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals to mark Black History Month. Watch Shannon's video here.
Watford-born Shannon, ranked number 2 in the UK in the Super Flyweight division, recorded the video to acknowledge the huge contribution of black nurses, doctors and support workers at her local hospital.
“To all the incredible NHS staff at West Herts Teaching (Hospitals) during this Black History Month, I just wanted to take a moment to recognise and celebrate your unwavering dedication and your hard work, your efforts, day in and day out, means so much to me and my family and countless others who rely on the exceptional care your commitment, especially through these challenging times, is a testament to your strength and compassion,” she said.
“You embody the values of resilience, unity and care that have always been a part of our community's history and legacy. We see you, we appreciate you, and we thank you for all that you do. You truly are heroes.”
Nearly half of the Trust’s 5,000 staff members come from an ethnic minority background.
To support the theme of this year’s Black History Month ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, the Trust is hosting a series of events to honour and celebrate the contribution of black staff members.
This has included shining a light on several colleagues nominated by staff members for their work. These include:
- Dr Frederick Odhiambo, a highly respected respiratory consultant, is recognised for his excellence in patient care and medical education. Dr Odhiambo is renowned for his compassion and dedication to mentoring junior doctors, making a lasting impact on both his patients and colleagues.
- Lynnette Mupopoma, a Sepsis Clinical Nurse Specialist, is celebrated for her tireless efforts in raising awareness about sepsis. Known for her boundless energy and infectious smile, Lynnette collaborates closely with clinical teams, ensuring that colleagues stay up to date with the latest developments and research. This work is essential, especially for clinical staff, to help them recognise and respond to sepsis in any patient under their care.
- Sister Babrah Akanon, Clinical Specialist Nurse is a true hero within her team. Her incredible warmth and support leaves a lasting impact on everyone around her. Babrah's kindness and positive energy is contagious, consistently bringing smiles to her colleagues' faces. Sister Babrah’s presence creates a supportive workplace, making her an invaluable part of her team.
Sister Babrah Akanon
Dr Frederick Odhiambo
Lynnette Mupopoma
Ends
- For more information, please contact the communications team on: 01923 436280 or email: westherts.communications@nhs.net. Out of hours, please call the Watford General Hospital switchboard on 01923 244366 and ask for the on call communications manager.
- West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust serves people from across Hertfordshire, north London and further afield. It operates from three hospitals; Watford General, St Albans City and Hemel Hempstead. The trust has a catchment area of over 600,000 people and is one of the largest employers locally, with around 5,800 staff and volunteers.
- For more information about our hospitals, visit www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk. You can also join us on Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube and LinkedIn
