Alistair and Theo’s Lab Tour
Alistair (10) and his younger brother Theo (8) stepped into the unknown to see what happens to their samples beyond the ward and into the hands of the biomedical science team.
Across the lab, each stop showed them a different part of the process.
In Biochemistry, Christina Williams showed Theo and Allistair a practical magnesium experiment, sharing examples of haemolysed and icteric samples and turning what can often feel abstract into something the boys could see and understand.
Tom Uden for Haematology introduced them to the world of blood films, describing red blood cells as ‘delivery trucks’. This comparison was useful, and turned complex science into something instantly recognisable for younger audiences.
In Blood Transfusion, the session focused on spotting the differences between blood groups, with the boys also getting a closer look at blood bags and fresh frozen plasma.
Behind the lab tour itself, the visit was brought together by a wider team effort. Sreelekshmy (CSR), Christina, Tom, and the Blood Transfusion team were joined by Joanna Ladd, who made sure Alistair and Theo were fully kitted out with lab coats and their own personalised ID badges. This helped them feel part of the lab from the moment they arrived.
Learning about blood samples
Watching samples spin in the centrifuge before testing
Following a sample through the system
Watching a scientist explain what blood cells look like on screen
Looking under the microscope
Learning how to read test results
It’s often the smallest details that stay with visitors the longest.
For Alistair and Theo, that included their Harvey’s Lab Tours goody bags and a teddy bear to take home at the end of the day. But the real impact of the visit came afterwards.
Back on the ward, the boys were quick to share what they’d learned. They explained the journey of a blood sample to the very person who helps take Alistair’s tests.
As their Hospital Play Specialist later shared:
Thanks again for allowing us to visit today. We went straight to Magpies where the boys explained to Matt (who helps us with Alistair’s blood test) about what happens to the blood he takes.
Mum was so impressed by it all, and asked me to thank everyone for their time and goodie bags. It was a great visit.
Thanks to the team at The North Kent Pathology Service for making this visit possible.
Do you have a story to share from your Harvey’s Lab Tour?
We’re always keen to hear about lab visits and experiences. If you’d like to share your story, please get in touch at [email protected]
