Starlight recognises inspirational health play specialist Eloise Lawrence
Eloise Lawrence, from Evelina London Children’s Hospital, was awarded Health Play Specialist of the Year 2024 for her dedication to supporting children through hospital procedures. Her work was recognised by colleagues in the Paediatric Radiology Department at the hospital.
Dr Arlen Urquia, Paediatric Radiology Consultant at Evelina London Children’s Hospital, said: “Eloise's help is invaluable to us in the Radiology Department. Our young patients can struggle with lying still for images which are essential for their diagnosis and treatment.
Eloise establishes a good relationship with them before they are brought into the examination rooms and they are better prepared for what is going to happen, as she’s explained it to them in a way they can understand.
She recently helped with a young patient who we managed to perform an MRI on without the need of a general anaesthetic. It was so successful, we have thought of continuing this approach in other young patients, so that we don't unnecessarily expose them to anaesthesia. We can only progress in our imaging development when we have people like Eloise to make it better for the patients.”
Cathy Gilman, Chief Executive of Starlight, said: “This award reflects the exceptional commitment of health play specialists who go above and beyond to support children through their hospital journeys. Eloise represents the very best in healthcare play. Her work is transformative, helping children and young people navigate some of the toughest moments of their lives with compassion, care, and creativity. We are incredibly proud to recognise her achievements.”