East Surrey Hospital chaplain John Glasspool has been shortlisted for a national award for his work with bereaved parents.
The Butterfly Awards recognise stories of courage from families who have lost a baby and the work of the people who support them.
John has been nominated by a former patient in the Bereavement Worker category for the help he offers families who have lost a baby during a pregnancy or after the birth.
News that he had been shortlisted for the award came as a complete surprise to John who said: “I feel very humbled to have been recognised in this way. The grief of losing a baby is something that never leaves people. I am aware that each couple’s story is unique and I always try to make sure the care I offer them reflects this.
“Memories have a lasting effect and my role is to be there for them, help with any arrangements that need to be made and along the way help create some special memories that will stay with them always.”
John, who has worked at the hospital for over 13 years, was nominated by Louise Hulmes from Horsham who said: “John deserves this recognition for his dedication to supporting bereaved parents. I want to thank him for helping us through such tough times and for the caring and compassionate way he walked us through each step of the process, nothing was too much trouble.”
Bereavement support is available at Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust for families who suffer a pregnancy loss.
The public vote opens on September 1st and closes on September 21st at www.thebutterflyawards.com. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Worcester in October.
