A giant rainbow at the entrance to University Hospital Wishaw provides a fitting tribute to its staff and will remain there as a symbol of hope.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, windows across Lanarkshire and the rest of the country filled with rainbows as a way of thanking health workers for their superhuman efforts.
The one at Wishaw’s hospital provides a colourful symbol of gratitude to those who worked tirelessly during the pandemic, which brought an uncertainty and fear that few had previously experienced.
It recognises those who have worked courageously there throughout these difficult times.
The rainbow at the entrance of the hospital also acts as a symbol of recognition of the dedicated workers who put those in their care first above their own fears and concerns. Many families lost loved ones, but the care and compassion shown by hospital staff provided reassurance that they were cared for and looked after.
Staff became almost invisible as the colours of the rainbow in their uniforms disappeared, wearing white attire including white gowns that emphasised the bleak severity of the pandemic.
The rainbow brought back the colourful array of identity in the uniforms again now worn by staff. Its colours representing life, healing, sun, nature, art, harmony and spirit.
Anne Leitch, chief of nursing, UHW, said: “The rainbow is a fitting tribute and a huge thank you goes to all the staff. It will be a constant reminder of the gratitude and recognition to those who worked under difficult and unpredictable times. It will also be a comforting thought for families knowing that their loved ones will always be remembered.”
Staff at UHW would like to acknowledge those who contributed to making the hospital rainbow a symbol of gratitude, staff from Serco; medical illustration; Cadzow Bridge Building Supplies; Stewarton Memorials; the spiritual care department; and Mackay and Inglis – the company who made the sign.
Jimmy Grieve, a volunteer gardener, also desreves special praise. He has given his time and expertise to transform the surrounding area of the rainbow into a wonderful display of plants and stone chippings.
He said: "I've been volunteering in the memorial garden for the last three years and it’s my privilege to be able to contribute to supporting families and staff. I’ve spoken to many families and staff who visited the memorial garden and the impact the pandemic had caused.
"The memorial garden is at the heart of my work and recently I was asked about preparing the grounds at the rainbow site. This is a very fitting tribute to say a huge thank you to all the staff. Many people have commented on the rainbow and how lovely the site is. Comments included, 'What a lift I get on entering the hospital'".
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