Western Trust marks Day of Reflection on lockdown anniversary in Derry, Omagh & Enniskillen

Designated as a National Day of Reflection, Tuesday, March 23, marked the one year anniversary of the first day of lockdown in the Covid-19 pandemic.

At Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry, Presbyterian Reverends Keith Hibbert and Lindsay Blair held a short prayer service to mark the anniversary.

Staff from across the Western Trust meanwhile created their own “Tree of Memory” made up of messages, poems and reflections from colleagues to mark the National Day of Remembrance.

This simple gesture provided staff with a means to reflect on their experiences, collate their thoughts and post public messages of support for each other.

Speaking about the National Day of Reflection, Western Trust Chief Executive, Dr Anne Kilgallen, said: “As a Trust we felt it was important to mark this occasion respectfully and with quiet dignity; that we took a little time out to reflect on the huge significance represented by this date and all that has occurred in the year since.

“At this time in particular our thoughts are with those who have sadly lost their lives to the virus and to the families and friends who have been left bereaved.

“We again extend our gratitude to our incredible Western Trust Heroes who have shown great dedication and commitment in fighting this pandemic and caring for all those affected.

“Finally, on this National Day of Reflection, we would like to say to the public who have made many sacrifices in order to save the lives of others, that your efforts are immensely appreciated by all of us in the Western Trust.”

In Tyrone at Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex, Hospital Chaplains; the Reverend Jane Nelson (Presbyterian), Fr Kevin McElhennon (Catholic) and Cannon Derek Quinn (Church of Ireland), led a Day of Reflection Prayer Walk, through the Hospital Grounds.

The aim of the 40 minute walk was to allow both staff and visitors to take some quiet time throughout the day to reflect on the past twelve months in their own way and to provide an opportunity to mark the occasion in a socially distanced, outdoor setting.

At the Trust’s South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, Sister Rosa Wong (Catholic) and the Reverend Lorna Dreaning (Methodist) unveiled a “Tree of Reflection”.

The tree provides a focal point where messages of support and reflection can be posted and displayed as a means of marking the date.