The Hampshire Family’s Tour
On November 30th, York Teaching Hospitals, in collaboration with the Scarborough, Hull, and York Pathology Service (SHYPS) and staff from the Children's ward, had the pleasure of hosting the Hampshire family for a Harvey’s Lab Tour.
Abbie, who regularly has her blood taken at the hospital, was curious to learn more about what happens behind the scenes. She was joined by her mum, dad, and her brothers Freddie (12) and Joey (10) for a day of hands-on fun.
The tour kicked off with a warm welcome, and the family got straight into the action by labelling their own sample forms and tubes. They then moved on to specimen reception, where they saw the first steps in the journey of a sample. From checking labels and tubes to confirming patient details, they learned just how important accuracy is in ensuring patient safety.
Next, it was time to explore the automated biochemistry lab. Here, the family tested the pH of urine with pH paper and compared their results with a pH wheel. They also played a game of "I Spy," spotting different pieces of lab equipment, and even had a go at centrifuging their own samples.
The microscope room was up next, where a haematology biomedical scientist helped the family identify the different cells that make up our blood. Then, in the automated haematology and coagulation section, they followed a sample along the analysers, uncovering the technology behind a full blood count and how it helps diagnose and monitor conditions.
The tour wrapped up in the transfusion area, where the family learned about storing and issuing red blood cells and platelets. They even got to handle actual units of red cells and platelets, giving them a hands-on understanding of how labs support patient care.
After their visit, Abbie’s family shared some lovely feedback:
“Abbie learned what blood is made up of, that there are lots of machines that test blood, scientists who look more closely at abnormal results, and that the laboratories test thousands of blood samples every day!”
“Thank you very much for the goodie bag. She especially likes the Harvey bear in the lab coat and has taken it all into school to tell her teachers and friends all about it.”
Abbie also had this to say:
“I feel braver now when I have my blood taken at hospital. I enjoyed wearing a white lab coat, writing out a blood test label, and finding lots of different equipment around the lab. At the end, I got a special certificate and a Harvey teddy, and I took them to school to show my teachers and friends in assembly!”
It’s stories like these that highlight what Harvey’s Lab Tours are all about — making science accessible, nurturing curiosity, and helping young patients like Abbie feel more connected to their healthcare.