patient
story
When the Chaplain Visits the Boss
Our National Operations Manager, Dave, recently found himself trading the office for a hospital bed — the result of complications from an old sports injury and surgery decades ago.
Dave underwent surgery to relieve nerve compression caused by that long-standing injury. At first, things looked promising. His recovery seemed to be going well — until two weeks later, when his wound reopened and became infected. This unexpected setback led to two additional hospital stays and a more complicated healing journey.
Throughout this time, Dave was grateful to receive visits from our dedicated chaplains. He found those visits to be more than just comforting — they brought conversation, prayer, and space to talk about things beyond his diagnosis. From reflecting on current events to discussing faith, the chaplains offered moments of calm and connection that helped break through the clinical environment.
Reflecting on his experience, Dave noticed something important: during each hospital admission, no one initially asked about his spiritual needs or beliefs. It wasn’t until his second day back in the ward that a full admission form was completed — the first time those questions were finally asked.
This gap in care highlighted an ongoing issue: patients entering through the Emergency Department don’t get a chance to see the ward’s noticeboard, which contains information about the chaplaincy team. That means many, especially first-time patients or visitors, may not even know that spiritual support is available.
Fortunately, Dave’s name was recognized by one of the chaplains, who quickly alerted the rest of the team. But as Dave pointed out, “It’s comforting to be known — but most patients, including many of our regular supporters, wouldn’t have that experience.”
“It’s been comforting to have the chaplains visit — not just to pray, but to talk about what’s happening in the world and to reflect on faith.
It’s a reminder that healing isn’t only physical.”
The chaplains brought more than prayer — they brought presence. Their visits weren’t always easy to fit in, often interrupted by busy clinicians or other visitors. One chaplain even joked that it felt strange to be visiting their boss. Dave quickly reassured them: “Right now, I’m just another patient here to rest and heal.”
Dave remains in hospital and is facing at least one more surgery ahead. We continue to keep him in our thoughts and prayers, hoping for a smooth and full recovery.
If you or someone you love finds themselves in hospital, we encourage you to connect with our chaplains. No matter your beliefs, their presence can bring warmth, support, and a reminder that you’re not alone on the journey to healing.
Dave, National Operations Manager
SUPPORTER VOICES
“As a Staff Nurse working on a very busy medical ward, I found the services of a hospital chaplain to be absolutely essential to provide support, companionship and spiritual help at times of great vulnerability for patients and their families.”
Sue B