A local artist has donated several pieces of her work to Ellesmere Port Hospital to go in the new Kate’s Corner and Memory Lane facilities.
Christine Cook, who used to volunteer at the hospital, jumped at the chance to add a bit of colour to areas specially designed for patients living with dementia.
“It’s a great feeling to know I can donate these pieces of my work and they may bring some joy to people who are in hospital,” Christine said.
“When I look back at each piece I’ve done, I remember certain moments of my life or emotions I was feeling at the time so I hope patients can get a similar feeling from them.”
Kate’s Corner is effectively a small apartment within the hospital that can be used as a next-step-home area or somewhere for end of life care, while Memory Lane is full of nostalgic items and is an area where patients can socialise.
Christine spent a year volunteering at the hospital in 2013, hosting arts and crafts classes for patients to enjoy.
Despite those sessions coming to an end, Christine has remained a strong friend to the hospital. When she heard about the recent improvements, which were completed in partnership with NHS Property Services, she saw an opportunity to help once again.
“Memory Lane is a great space,” she said. “This would have been ideal for hosting the arts and crafts classes I used to do and I can see why it’s so popular among patients.”
Christine primarily uses oil and chalk pastels and has more than 350 pieces of her work adorning the walls of her home.
Most of her work is inspired by wildlife, with wild cats in particular usually grabbing her attention, and she also does commissions of pets. She selected a series of more tranquil, relaxing canvases for the patients at Ellesmere Port Hospital to enjoy.
Ellesmere Port Hospital Administrator Lesley Johnson said: “We’re very privileged and grateful to have Chris as a friend to the hospital. I’ve been to her house two or three times and her work is astounding.
“She asked me to pick out some pieces for her donation, but I struggled to choose because they were all so good. I think the patients are going to love them.”
:: More of Christine’s work can be viewed on her Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/christine.cook.7982780
:: Kate’s Corner story - /corporate-information/news/kates-corner.aspx
:: Collection of recent content about Ellesmere Port Hospital - https://wakelet.com/wake/33785d42-d574-4c45-84f3-a24d9293a1f3