It's always special for our hospital staff when they see a former patient up and well after going through really tough times - and having that patient thank you in person means the world.

And Raymond Blanc was determined to show his gratitude to the teams that helped him earlier this year, when he was seriously ill with Covid-19.

In August 100 hospital staff were invited by Raymond to a private garden party at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison organised to thank the teams who looked after him during four weeks of treatment at the John Radcliffe.

Most of the guests were staff who were directly involved in his care, but the invite was also extended to a small number representatives from each hospital site, including porters, cleaners, caterers and intensive care staff.

In a moving speech Monsieur Blanc praised the incredible teamwork and professionalism of the staff who cared for him and thanked them for keeping him alive.

He said: ‘I work in the world of excellence, I spend my time looking at details, and at the John Radcliffe as a patient, a very ill person, I discovered a world where every member of the team - porter, cleaner, nurse, apprentice nurse, doctors, consultant, physios – worked together as an ensemble of skilled people.

‘What you do is not just work it is a vocation. Today is a way for me to say thank you to you all.’ 

For the staff present it was an emotional moment to hear the heartfelt gratitude from Raymond for looking after him, and so many others.

He chatted with the consultant who looked after him, remembering the moment she wrote ‘woohoo’ on the patient information board, signalling that Raymond’s health was starting to improve.

Raymond also called a staff member who wasn't able to attend (who he’s nick-named ‘Singing Sally’, for the happy way she worked with all the patients) and the two facetimed and had a little sing down the phone together.

We’d like to thank Raymond and his team for such a special gesture which meant so much to our hospital teams. It's an afternoon they won't forget.

If you'd like to thank a team that has cared for you or a loved one why not make a donation and help make a difference for patients and staff today.