Betsy's Lab Tour
On 14th March 2025, Betsy got a chance to explore the University Hospital Southampton (UHS) laboratories and see what happens to patient samples, learning more about the science behind her sister Mary’s care.
Mary is a patient at UHS, and Betsy has shown a real interest in her healthcare and medical science. So, the UHS lab team arranged a special tour to help her learn more about the work done behind the scenes.
Betsy and her mum Jerri met Chloe, a Senior Biomedical Scientist from Blood Transfusion and their guide for the day. Chloe gave an overview of what to expect from the tour, using plush blood cell toys to explain the different components that make up blood. Betsy then received her very own lab coat and ID badge, ready to start the tour.
Analysers and colour-changing experiments
Betsy’s tour began in Specimen Reception and Biochemistry where they met Andrew, an apprentice biomedical scientist. Andrew showed Betsy the analysers and explained how some work by detecting changes in colour. To demonstrate, he used two test tubes of water – one with calcium (tap water) and one without (deionised water) – and added reagent so Betsy could see the difference for herself.
Microscopes, blood films and playdoh models
The next stop, Haematology, where Steve, a Senior Biomedical Scientist, introduced Betsy to the blood film process. She viewed real blood samples under the microscope, with a screen so Jerri could see too, and then made 3D models of different cell shapes using playdoh. A creative way to get hands-on with haematology!
Exploring blood groups and understanding emotions
In Blood Transfusion, Chloe explained how blood is grouped and stored. Betsy then tried a mini blood grouping experiment and used colourful laminates to add antigens to red cells, helping her understand how different blood groups are identified.
To finish the tour, Chloe led an “emotions volcano” activity. Using vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, food colouring and washing-up liquid, Betsy created a fizzy chemical reaction. The activity helped open a conversation about how people might feel about healthcare experiences, and how understanding what happens in the lab can help ease some of those worries.
At the end of the visit, Betsy received a certificate, a teddy bear and a goody bag, including one to take home for her sister.
Jerri, Betsy’s mum, commented:
“Thank you so much. Betsy had the best time today.”
A huge thank you to everyone at University Hospital Southampton for making Betsy’s lab tour so memorable. It’s thanks to hardworking lab teams like yours that young people like Betsy can feel more connected to their loved ones’ care, more confident in their understanding of healthcare, and more inspired by the science behind it all.