Donna decks the WMH ED halls with festive spirit

Now in her seventh year at Werribee Mercy Hospital, Ward Clerk Donna McSaveney has stepped up to ensure the walls and corridors of the Emergency Department are decked with Christmas joy.

Donna contacted a number of local primary schools in late November to ask if students would be interested in contributing some Christmas art or craft to adorn the walls of the ED.

“The response has been overwhelming, with seven schools providing so many wonderful pieces we had difficulty finding space for it all,” says Donna.

“The positive, colourful and festive displays have drawn great reactions from patients. One elderly patient spent almost an entire morning strolling through our corridors, admiring the lovely work.”

ED Nurse Unit Manager Leigh McDougall says staff like Donna play an important role in keeping spirits and morale high at the hospital.

“She doesn’t just sit back and wait for others to initiate a project,” Leigh says.

“She steps up, rolls up her sleeves and the next thing we have wonderful artwork coming through our front doors.

“It’s not only important for staff morale.

“It’s clear our patients get a lift from the children’s work, as well.”