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A Silverbridge family have decided to give something back to the Intensive Care Unit at Craigavon Hospital following the illness of a close family member.

Sisters Belinda O’Neill and Claudia McAvoy gave the units Family Room a major makeover after raising £5000 at a ‘Sparkling Afternoon Tea’ in the Canal Court Hotel last year.

Pictured in the completed Family room are front from left: Belinda, Leo (Belinda’s Son) and Claudine. Back Row; Karen Tirney Staff Nurse, Julie Elliott Staff Nurse, Dr Emma McGregor, Ruth McParland Ward Manager, Dr Daniel McKeever, Helena Murray Head of Service.
Pictured in the completed Family Room are front from left: Belinda, Leo (Belinda’s Son) and Claudine. Back Row; Karen Tirney Staff Nurse, Julie Elliott Staff Nurse, Dr Emma McGregor, Ruth McParland Ward Manager, Dr Daniel McKeever, Helena Murray Head of Service.

The new look Family Room now includes bespoke recliner chairs, a sofa bed, tea and coffee making facilities and a fridge. It also has a shower room next door which can be used by relatives.

Speaking about the project Belinda says: “We wanted to show our gratitude to the amazing ICU staff and give something back to help others in the same situation. We were delighted to be given a free reign to overhaul the room and hope that it offers some tranquillity to other families during such a distressing time.”

Thanking the sisters for their generosity, Intensive Care Unit Manager, Sister Ruth McParland said: “We are all absolutely overwhelmed by the kindness of Belinda and Claudia and how they have whole heartedly taken on this project.

“Here in Intensive Care we treat the most acutely ill patients from across the whole Southern Trust area and understandably relatives want to stay here as much as they can during this time.

The family room after it's makeover.
The Family Room after it's makeover.

“Our new room offers a little haven for families to take some time out while still being close to their loved one. The girls have chosen the very best furnishings and accessories to create a beautiful home-from- home environment, which will hopefully bring some comfort during such difficult circumstances.”

Belinda and Claudia would like to thank everyone who donated to their fundraising efforts and have now embarked on their next project to upgrade the Family Consultation Room within the Intensive Care Unit.

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