So, it felt like a privilege to find the roll of honour board.
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| The Roll of Honour board, as you might expect in a hospital, obscured by trolleys. |
The inscription along the bottom reads, "The above are members of the Guinea Pig Club, founded in 1941, for allied serving airforce men who were treated at the Queen Victoria Hospital during the Second World War."
The work of McIndoe and his team was about more than just treating the horrific burns and injuries suffered. They were also concerned with enabling the men to function and thrive despite their physical and mental scars. In this respect they were ahead of their time in showing that injury and disability should be no barrier.
To this day, the hospital maintains strong links with military patients and continues to treat service men and women. They also support the training of military staff.
What an honour to spend a few moments reflecting on the work done by the Queen Victoria Hospital, McIndoe, and the "Guinea Pigs".
It’s an amazing story Richard. Heard a podcast recently where the psychological rehabilitation approach was discussed. The patients were actively encouraged to socialise and even drink beer on the ward. Groundbreaking surgery and rehab as you say.
ReplyDeleteAs a young purchasing officer in the NHS xx years ago, I would often see requisitions for ‘McIndoe forceps’ but never knew the history.
Chris/Nundanket.
Glad you liked it Chris, and now you can put forceps and name together.
DeleteAn interesting read, thanks Richard.
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome Lawrence.
DeleteAn unusual post Richard and well worth sharing! Hope all is OK with your son?
ReplyDeleteThank you Keith. My son is healing nicely.
DeleteWhat a great little post Rich and what an unusual find! I hope J or T are ok?
ReplyDeleteCheers Ray. J is doing just fine.
DeleteThanks Lee. I knew about the hospital and club. I just didn't expect to find a roll of honour.
ReplyDeleteGood to see them remembered Richard. I can't remember where, but I saw some drawings of the plastic surgery they performed, which was completely new for the time IIRC. I also heard a Radio 4 programme on the surgeon where many of those went onto to become film projectionists in cinemas, where they could not be 'seen' but had gainful employment.
ReplyDeleteIt is true Steve that there is a bigger story here, technical and personal.
DeleteWow, a very interesting and serious post, Richard. Impressive and thoughtful.
ReplyDeleteAppreciate your remarks Dean.
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