Every day, across our hospital, extraordinary people go above and beyond – not for recognition, but because they care. The You Make a Difference Awards shine a light on those moments of compassion, courage and commitment that truly change lives.
This month, we’re proud to share three remarkable stories:
- Lyndsay Myers, Discharge Co‑ordinator, Delayed Transfer Department
- Anand Kannan, Theatre Matron, Perioperative Care
You Make a Difference – Winner: Lyndsay Myers, Discharge Co‑ordinator, Delayed Transfer Department
When Lyndsay Myers joined the Complex Discharge Team in 2022, she stepped into a role that quietly shapes a patient’s journey at one of the most important moments: getting home safely. As a Discharge Co‑ordinator, Lyndsay works closely with wards, families and community services to ensure patients receive the right support beyond hospital walls — work that has a significant impact on patient flow and wellbeing.
Lyndsay is a great advocate for her patients, determined to get the best she can for them.
Jenny Tilley
Over the past year, the team has navigated constant change. Through it all, Lyndsay has been a steady, positive presence — often the first to volunteer to pilot new ways of working, take part in workshops, or help shape improvements. Her focus never wavers from what matters most: the patient.
Compassion at a Time of Heartbreak
One colleague shared a moment that shows exactly why Lyndsay has been recognised. While working on T2, Lyndsay met with a patient who had just received devastating news about their child. Despite what they were facing, the patient was trying to focus on arrangements to get home so they could be with their family.
Lyndsay sat with them and listened. She gave them time — space to talk, to share photographs, to speak about their child. It was an emotional conversation, but one where the patient felt truly heard.
Lyndsay was compassionate and took the time to really listen.
For the staff who attend, the sessions offer something that can feel hard to come by on a busy hospital shift: a moment of stillness. A chance to breathe, to step back from the noise of the day, and to return to work feeling a little more like themselves.
Going Above and Beyond
With the patient’s permission, Lyndsay took practical steps to ease some of the overwhelming worries they were carrying. She contacted the Housing Association to explain why the patient couldn’t return the keys to their property. She reached out to Adult Social Care to ask about support with funeral costs, which had been causing significant distress. She also ensured the patient’s other child was referred to the Paediatric Safeguarding Team.
These actions weren’t required. But Lyndsay did them because she cared.
Lyndsay went above and beyond in this situation and should be recognised for the compassion she showed.
A True Advocate
Lyndsay’s work often happens quietly, behind the scenes, but its impact is profound. She brings humanity into moments of uncertainty and compassion into moments of grief. Her ability to balance care, determination and kindness is exactly what the You Made a Difference award celebrates.
Congratulations, Lyndsay. Your compassion truly made a difference when it mattered most.
You Make a Difference – Winner: Anand Kannan, Theatre Matron, Perioperative Care
When Anand Kannan joined the Theatre Matron team in May 2025, he brought with him a wealth of experience and a calm confidence that quickly reassured those around him. Having worked across theatres in several prestigious Trusts, as well as CUH itself, Anand was no stranger to high‑pressure environments. But it was his leadership, compassion and quiet strength that soon stood out.
Since starting in the Matron role, Anand has received brilliant feedback about how supportive, calm and helpful he is.
Sian Brown
Alongside his role as Theatre Matron, Anand’s career reflects a deep commitment to learning and improvement. From teaching and lifesaving training to research that has changed practice and delivered real benefits, he brings both breadth and heart to everything he does. As Matron, he oversees theatres, supports staff, ensures patient flow and leads two units — always with patient safety and quality at the centre of his decisions.
Leading When It Matters Most
Following the horrific knife attack that shook our community, Anand showed exactly what leadership looks like in moments of crisis. Despite being relatively new to the Matron team, he voluntarily came in to support the Trust’s emergency theatre response.
Without hesitation, Anand stepped into a pivotal role — coordinating staffing, managing theatre logistics and ensuring emergency theatres were fully supported.
His calm presence and clear decision making under pressure were instrumental during a time of high acuity and emotional strain.
Amid intense pressure, Anand worked tirelessly alongside clinical and operational colleagues, maintaining control, clarity and focus. His steady leadership helped staff feel supported and reassured in a fast‑moving and deeply challenging situation.
Compassion Beyond the Crisis
Once the immediate emergency had passed, Anand’s focus turned to the people around him. He sent a thoughtful email to those involved, thanking them for their efforts, recognising their contribution and offering follow‑up support.
His actions went above and beyond to protect patients and support colleagues.
It was a simple gesture, but one that spoke volumes — reflecting integrity, humility and genuine care for his team.
A Leader Who Makes a Difference
Colleagues describe Anand as deeply respected, compassionate and consistent — someone who leads by example and never loses sight of the people behind the work. His response during one of the most difficult moments the Trust has faced was a powerful reflection of his character and professionalism.
This was a powerful reflection of Anand’s leadership, integrity and commitment to the Trust.
Anand truly made a difference — not just on that weekend, but every day he walks into theatres.
Congratulations, Anand. Thank you for everything you do.