Staff members honoured by King

Two staff members from Guy’s and St Thomas’ have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours list.

Professor Jane Davies, honorary consultant in paediatric respiratory medicine at Royal Brompton Hospital and professor of paediatric respiratory medicine and experimental medicine at Imperial College London, has been awarded an OBE for services to people with cystic fibrosis.

Professor Davies has been at the forefront of revolutionising treatments for people with cystic fibrosis. Her research focuses on designing and leading global clinical trials for ground-breaking treatments, known as CFTR modulator drugs, that target the underlying, genetic causes of the disease.

These treatments are now licensed in the UK and suitable for around 85-90% of people with cystic fibrosis, including one drug which can be prescribed to newborn babies.

Professor Davies said: “It is an incredible honour to have been nominated for this award by members of the cystic fibrosis community. The evolution in clinical care over the last few decades means life for many living with the condition is longer and of greater quality, but these advances do not benefit all people equally and there is much left to do.

I am privileged to work with passionate and dedicated colleagues in multidisciplinary clinical and research roles at Imperial College and Royal Brompton Hospital, my heartfelt thanks goes to them for their tireless teamwork.

Debra Holloway, gynaecology nurse consultant, was awarded an MBE for services to women’s health. Debra recently retired after working for the Trust for over 25 years.

Debra said: “I am delighted and honoured to get an MBE, so lovely to be given this in recognition of my work in women's health both inside and outside of the Trust. I have been overwhelmed by the kind words that have been sent to me.”

Colleague, Claudia Tye, advanced nurse practitioner, said: “Debra is a dedicated nurse with a passion for women’s health and improving patient care through advanced nursing. She is nationally revered, and adored by colleagues and patients for her enthusiasm and commitment to women’s health, and for her tremendous kindness.

“This award acknowledges her unwavering commitment to developing and raising the profile of specialist and advanced nursing. We’re extremely proud that she has represented our Trust while having such a positive and wide-reaching impact on nursing, women’s health, and patient care.”

In addition to two staff members being recognised, Anne Hamilton, Headteacher of the Evelina Hospital School, has also been awarded an MBE for her services to education.

For 17 years, Anne has been a key figure in hospital education, leading the Evelina Hospital School for the past 11 years. The Outstanding Ofsted-rated school provides education to children and young people in Evelina London Children’s Hospital.