Is Worthing Hospital your Health Hero?

Mary Ann Vear nominated the unit for support that staff members have given to her family.

She said: “At the beginning of the year my daughter was rushed into the HDU because she had a cyst removed and it led to an infection and Diabetic ketoacidosis.

“The staff and doctors were amazing with her and gave her all the help and support they could.

“Thirteen weeks later when I was in hospital myself I got a call from my son to say that my daughter was on her way to A and E.

“The nurse that was looking after me rang down and was able to take me down so I could talk to the doctors.

“My daughter was again taken to the HDU where they explained to us that the next 24 hours was crucial as she was very ill. It was the same team that had looked after her before and they let me sit with my daughter and answered any questions that the family had,

“As I was still in hospital the staff on the HDU kept me informed as to what was happening.

“If it was not for them I do not know what I would have done and my daughter would not be here today.

“I would like to thank them for all their hard work and all the support they give patients and their families, which is why they deserve this award.”

Nominated in the Star of the Community award are Lesley Drayton and Debbie Cockrill, who work for Buddys Cafe. The sisters have been nominated by Karol Morris, who owns Sole Divas Chiropody.

She said: “I have nominated Lesley and Debbie because of their infinite kindness, patience and hard work for the patrons of the charity.

“Everyone that is involved in Buddys is special but these two do so much outside of what their responsibilities are and are always on hand to give help in their patient way. They really stand out because they are so fantastic.”

Also nominated in this category is Marie Baker of Blush Hair Studio. Penny Riordan said: “Marie takes a personal interest in her client’s lives and goes the extra mile in her friendly, open way.”