When the Chaplain Visits the Boss

Our National Operations Manager, Dave, has recently transitioned from his office to a hospital bed due to complications from a past sports injury and surgery (decades ago). After undergoing recent surgery to alleviate nerve compression caused by this injury, Dave initially experienced a successful recovery. However, two weeks later, he faced a setback when his surgical wound reopened and became infected, leading to his second and third hospital stays.

During this time, Dave has had the opportunity to receive visits from our dedicated chaplains. He observed that, upon each admission, he was not asked about his spiritual needs or beliefs. Only this morning on his second day back in the ward has a full admission form been completed and these questions asked. The process of admission through the Emergency Department (ED) does not allow patients to view the notice board in the ward, which features information about the chaplaincy team.

Fortunately, after notifying one of the chaplains of his admission, Dave learned that another chaplain had already recognised his name and informed the rest of the team. While it is beneficial to be known, this level of awareness is not common for most patients, including our regular donors.

Dave has found comfort in the visits from the chaplains, appreciating the chance to engage in conversations that extend beyond clinical matters. These interactions have provided him with a space to discuss current events and explore matters of faith. He values the prayer support offered by the chaplains and acknowledges the challenges they face when their visits are interrupted by busy clinicians or other visitors. One chaplain humorously remarked that it felt unusual to visit their boss, but Dave quickly reassured them that he was simply there to rest and heal like any other patient. Dave is still in hospital with at least one more surgery ahead, so we pray for a full recovery.

If you or a loved one find yourselves in the hospital, we encourage you to reach out to our chaplains for support, regardless of your faith or beliefs. Their presence can provide comfort and connection during challenging times.