Oliver’s Lab Tour at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals

Oliver spent time in a range of Blood Sciences departments including reception, biochemistry, haematology and blood transfusion, where he got to see how patient samples move through the laboratory and how different tests support diagnosis and treatment.

Oliver was very engaged throughout the tour, asking lots of questions and interacting confidently with staff. A special moment for the team was when he recognised a staff member from a previous pop-up hospital event, which helped make the experience even more personal for Oliver.

His favourite area of the laboratory was transfusion, where he was fascinated by the work involved in blood product testing and compatibility.

After the tour, Oliver's mum shared that he had been role-playing working in a laboratory at home since getting home. She also mentioned how interesting it was to see the journey of blood through the lab, especially as a blood donor herself.

She said:

Oliver and I wanted to say a huge thank you to all the staff who took the time to show him around. He loved every minute of it and has been role playing working in the bio lab since we got home. His favourite area was transfusion. I enjoyed it too – so fascinating to see what happens. Harvey’s Lab Tours is a fantastic opportunity for children to see how their blood goes through a journey of investigation. It’s definitely inspired Oliver and we thank you all again.

The team shared how rewarding it was to welcome Oliver and see his enthusiasm for laboratory science throughout the visit.