Nurse Shirley's an 'inspiration'

Shirley Robinson, who is a senior specialist at the Dudley Group of Hospitals, has picked up the British Lung Foundation Award for providing outstanding healthcare in the community.

Shirley, who has worked in the Lung Function Unit since 1997, was nominated by friend and colleague Denise Yates.

It was to honour her work for the trust and with the Dudley and District Breathe Easy Group which she set up in 2000 to support patients with respiratory problems. Shirley organises speakers and is present at all meetings held by the group.

She also actively raises money for the group by entering sponsored events.

These have included The Great North Run and a raft race, which saw many of the staff from the Lung Function Unit taking part.

Unfortunately it ended with Shirley in plaster following a collision with another raft.

Denise Yates, secretary to the Breathe Easy group, said Shirley was an inspiration.

"Without Shirley there would be no Breathe Easy group, she makes time for all of us and we all know, both staff and patients, that we can contact her any time." she added. "She has great compassion for her patients.

"No-one could give more to the group and as she says 'it's not just about raising money, it's the social aspect of coming together and being there for the patients'.

"For her to be honoured with this award is our way of showing her how very much we appreciate her and everything she does."

Shirley added: "This award is a thank you to the many people who put time and effort into making the Breathe Easy group a success."

Anyone interested in joining the Dudley and District Breathe Easy group can call the respiratory helpline on 01384 244 383.