Four colleagues from Lancashire Teaching Hospitals enjoyed a special celebration ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Wednesday, 5 July, the 75th birthday of the NHS.
Professor Mohammed Munavvar (Consultant Chest Physician/Interventional Pulmonologist), Naeem Toorawa (Imam), Khalid Ibrahim (Imam) and Simon Gilbertson (Reverend/Chaplain) were honoured to represent the Trust following a rigorous nationwide selection process.
They joined other NHS workers from across the country to mark the anniversary in at the historic venue, location of the coronations of 40 English and British monarchs, and several Royal weddings - including that of Prince William and Kate Middleton - since 1100.
Professor Munavvar was proud to be at the celebration, and said: “It was indeed such a pleasure and a huge honour to be invited to the NHS75 service at Westminster Abbey, and to be in the midst of numerous illustrious personalities from across the country.
“The service itself was so beautifully conducted, and thoroughly enjoyable, in such a spectacular venue, steeped in history.
“I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to our Trust for nominating me to attend this unique event.”
Khalid Ibrahim added: “I am truly honoured to have been chosen for this remarkable opportunity, moreover, I would like to commend the Trust's commitment to diversity and inclusion. It was evident from the event that our Trust was amongst the most diverse groups represented.
“This inclusivity reflects not only the Trust's dedication to embracing diversity, but also its acknowledgment of the invaluable contributions made by individuals from various backgrounds and cultures within our organisation.
“Being a representative at the NHS75 event was an extraordinary experience. It was an occasion of great significance, not only for the National Health Service but also for our trust's journey and achievements. It exemplified the strength and unity that arises when people from different walks of life come together for a common cause. Witnessing the rich tapestry of voices, perspectives, and talents was truly inspiring and reaffirmed the trust's belief in the power of diversity to drive progress and innovation.”
Naeem Toorawa said before the event: “I knew it was huge from the excitement in (Director of Communication & Engagement) Naomi (Duggan)'s voice, when she was telling us about the nomination, the enormity hit me later!
“I feel humbled having been nominated by a Trust who has so many more deserving candidates. I will carry the spirit of the Trusts colleagues with me, the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to heal and uplift the community.”
Reverend Simon Gilbertson was humbled by the experience and said: “I am so grateful to all in the Trust who enabled me to attend the 75th Anniversary Service at Westminster Abbey last Wednesday. It was a privilege to experience an occasion like this.
“It was deeply humbling to be part of this great community gathered there; and I was very conscious that we were a representative 'tip of the iceberg' of all our colleagues - I kept you in my thoughts and prayers!
“The many different uniforms of colleagues in the Abbey spoke to me powerfully of how we are all diverse but interconnected parts of the 'one body' of care we provide for our communities.”
