A blooming tribute for Rotherham nurse honoured with her own gladioli
A husband and wife duo from Rotherham have honoured their community nurse by naming a new variety of gladioli after her.
TB Specialist Nurse, Tracy Turton, has been looking after Marlene Willoughby since she developed TB in September 2019. Tracy made regular visits to Marlene’s home and soon became a welcome support for Marlene and her husband, David.
Tracy is the only working nurse in the country to have a flower named in her honour and the ‘Tracey T’ gladioli has been officially registered with the North American Gladiolus Council and British Gladiolus Society.
To celebrate this tribute, a framed photo of the flower, along with a plaque, has been installed on the wall of Rotherham Hospital’s main entrance. The installation aims to serve as a lasting recognition of Tracy’s impact on the Willoughby family and the wider community.
The unveiling was a complete surprise to Tracy, as she was led to the hospital’s main concourse where she was greeted by Mr and Mrs Willoughby, along with colleagues, including Helen Dobson and Daniel Hartley, the Chief Nurse and Director of People at The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust.
Helen Dobson, Chief Nurse, commented: “It was a real privilege to attend the unveiling, where Tracy was presented with the framed photograph of the gladioli named in her honour. To see one of our team members recognised in such a personal and touching way was truly uplifting.
“Tracy is committed to delivering care to patients both at the hospital and out in the community. Her commitment sets an example for her colleagues.”
After reflecting on her surprise, Tracy said: ”I am not usually lost for words but what David and Marlene have done today is a massive surprise. It’s great to know that the care I provided to them continues to be recognised in such a lovely way.”
After the presentation, Mr Willoughby told us: “Tracy is a wonderful nurse and she has been fantastic to me and Marlene. She always went above and beyond to ensure we both felt comfortable with our treatments. Naming the flower after her is our way of showing how grateful we are for her.”