Black History Month 2021 Nominees- Week 4

Merris Longstaff, Nurse at Minor Injuries
Merris has worked well over 30 years for the N.H.S . She is very kind to patients and staff, having excellant communcation skills written or orally. Nothing is too much trouble for her and she is a diamond who lights up the whole area with her smile and her knowledge.
She is very talented and very well loved by all staff members of the U.T.C/ minor injuries here at the Cumberland Devonport.
Thank-you, Merris.
William Mukonoweshuro, Consultant Neuroradiologist
I would like to nominate William Mukonoweshuro. He is an exceptionally hardworking and dedicated neuroradiology consultant who has spearheaded the introduction of thrombectomy for acute stroke at this hospital. This procedure is one of the most effective interventions of all therapies in the whole of medicine, and stroke is the second commonest global cause of death, so this is a really important therapeutic area.
He initially, with another fantastic colleague Will Adams (now retired but who would deserve similar acknowledgement), did an “ghost” rota on a 1 in 2 basis (in addition to their usual on-call) to help get this treatment off the ground.
William continues to work ceaselessly to expand the service, and to ensure all patients regardless of where they live in the South West can access the therapy. Now over 50% of all patients are coming from other trusts, and we offer equitable care across the peninsula.
It is important to realise that removal of a blood clot from an artery within the brain is a complex and time critical intervention which can carry significant risk. It consequently requires a high level of skill, expertise and bravery to undertake. Medicine is a team game, and this treatment is now delivered by a group of excellent neuroradiologists, anaesthetists, radiographers, nurses, technicians and other clinical and non-clinical staff.
Nonetheless it is notable that William has consistently advocated and developed this service for well over a decade. He has led from the front, and done so with a good humour that has encouraged and motivated others. I therefore think he is a good role model and his dedication and professionalism deserves particular recognition.
Thank-you, William.
Kyeiyanne James, Associate Practitioner
Kyeiyanne is our first BAME network chair. She set up the network and has engaged staff from all staff groups within the hospital, the Medical School, Plymouth University and beyond. Kyeiyanne's passion and dedication to the role, coupled with her authentic approach, honesty and ability to navigate through some very difficult and sensitive issues whilst still remaining true to herself and her beliefs have been truly inspiring.
I would like to thank Kyeiyanne and expression my sincere appreciation for her hard work, dedication and committment.
Thank-you, Kyeiyanne.