Queen Camilla opens St George’s Hospital “Garden in the Sky” in Tooting
Her Majesty Queen Camilla opened the St George’s Hospital “Garden in the Sky” yesterday (located on the balcony next to Neuro Intensive Care) for the benefit of patients, their families, and staff of the Tooting hospital.
The Queen was introduced to a patient who is one of St George’s own brain surgery nurses, and is currently being treated in the neurosurgery ward she usually works in after suffering a brain haemorrhage two weeks ago.
Catherine Oppong-Barbo, who has worked as a neurosurgery nurse at St George’s since 2017, said, “Now I’m using the balcony as a patient, I can put myself in their shoes and truly feel how big of an impact this is going to make”.
The garden was created through a partnership with the John King Brain Tumour Foundation and St George’s Hospital Charity, transforming a previously unused space into an accessible roof garden, directly connected to the intensive care unit.
Laura King MBE, founder and Chair of The John King Brain Tumour Foundation said, “This year marks ten years since my husband John died. After being diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour in 2015, he was treated by the incredible team at St George’s Hospital.
“We cherished the access to the gardens on the McKissock ward and wanted to help ensure that this kind of space was also available for the hundreds of patients admitted to the Neuro Intensive Care Unit each year. A space that provides families with a dignified, peaceful setting away from clinical surroundings.”
Research suggests that nature-based rehabilitation may help improve the recovery from the impact of brain injury by improving motivation, regulating mood and improving sensory-motor and cognitive functions.
Queen Camilla unveiled a commemorative plaque and a sculpture by Emma Rodgers, inspired by a mighty English oak symbolising strength, wisdom, nurturing and healing. Its leaf canopy is made from hands applauding the NHS.
More info about the John King Brain Tumour Foundation via their website.