Prince Harry has commended a nurse from Cardiff as a ‘guardian angel’ for her exceptional work at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales. Rhian Greenslade was lauded at the WellChild Awards, where she was announced as the winner. The WellChild charity, for which Prince Harry has been a patron for 16 years, honoured Rhian for her vital role as the WellChild discharge liaison nurse, assisting children with complex health needs in transitioning from hospital to home.
Describing Rhian as a calming influence, guardian angel, and rock, her colleagues and the families she supports have expressed admiration for her dedication over 15 years in the role. Laura Truscott-Wright, a WellChild parent trainer nurse at Cardiff and Vale UHB, hailed Rhian’s kindness and compassion, highlighting her essential contribution to ensuring families can care for children with complex needs at home. Rhian’s tireless efforts and unwavering support have touched the lives of numerous families, earning her praise and recognition.
During the award ceremony, Prince Harry acknowledged the resilience and spirit of the young award recipients, praising their courage, perseverance, and kindness. He also paid tribute to the unsung heroes – parents, carers, siblings, and professionals – who tirelessly work to provide the best possible lives for children with complex conditions and disabilities. Emphasizing the importance of advancing WellChild’s crucial work, Prince Harry called for continued support to make a positive difference in the lives of thousands of young people and families.
Matt James, Chief Executive of WellChild, highlighted the increasing number of children in the UK living with long-term, complex medical needs. He underscored the significance of the WellChild Awards 2024 in recognising the challenges faced by these children and celebrating their remarkable positivity, resilience, and spirit. The event aims to spotlight the dedication of individuals surrounding these children, from parent carers to professionals going above and beyond to empower them to thrive in life.
The WellChild Awards 2024, in partnership with GSK, serve as a platform to honour the inspiring journeys of children with complex needs and acknowledge the unwavering support provided by their families and dedicated professionals. The event not only celebrates the achievements of these young individuals but also underscores the collective effort of the community in nurturing and uplifting their lives.
The recognition bestowed upon Rhian Greenslade reflects the profound impact of her compassionate and dedicated service in enhancing the well-being of children with complex health needs. Her contributions exemplify the spirit of selflessness and dedication that defines the unsung heroes within the healthcare community. Prince Harry’s tribute to Rhian and other award recipients underscores the importance of supporting initiatives that empower children and families facing challenging health circumstances.