I would like to take this opportunity to give a feedback of my boys' visit to Antrim Area Hospital's laboratory through Harvey's Lab Tours initiative.
To start with, talking to Stephanie Hill (Head of Blood Transfusion) was such a pleasure, and Stephanie was so prompt and welcoming from the first email and phone call up to post our visit.
During the visit to Antrim Area Hospital's laboratory myself, Nathan and Joshua were met by lovely Carole Henry, Head of Haematology, Dr Aaron Niblock (Consultant Haematologist) and Dr Sally Elsir. They made my boys and myself feel very welcome, allowing even some time for the kids to get used to being there before we were taken to the lab.
Lovely tea, coffee and treats were awaiting us, as well as the goodies that Harvey's Gang had sent, thank you for that very much. Other staff I would like to mention are: John who showed us a blood sample and making a blood film, Sharon who showed us the films on the microscope and Kenzi who showed us how to determine the blood groups, they were all great with explaining, showing and talking to us. We were so well looked after and I felt so honoured to have had such a nice experience all over.
The boys learned so much about what happens to their bloods and I got to ask "a few" (many) questions myself, to which there was also a quick and incredible reply to every question and such kindness in responding and showing us around.
Joshua took notes in his little red book, which he started reading when we entered our car to make our way back home. Nathan came back also recapping some of what he had just learned, this visit has opened discussions around bloods, thalassemia (which they both have a trait), anatomy, working in a lab and maybe we will have a bio scientist in a few years ??.
It also showed the boys the importance and the reason as to why they have to have bloods taken, also what happens to it afterwards, it was an enlightening afternoon.
I am so thankful to everyone involved and mentioned above, I hope I haven't forgotten anyone.
Kindest regards,
Rebeka, Nathan and Joshua
The boys learned so much about what happens to their bloods
Joshua took notes in his little red book, which he started reading when we entered our car to make our way back home.
This visit has opened discussions around bloods, thalassemia (which they both have a trait), anatomy, working in a lab and maybe we will have a bio scientist in a few years ??.
