Happy 70th Birthday to the NHS!

The NHS…. Its 70th Birthday? Well that is something to celebrate, something for our Country to have pride in.
I was fortunate to receive an invitation to attend the service at Westminster Abbey this morning – it was the most beautiful service and must admit that I am still in awe at the pure beauty that Westminster Abbey held. Today was so special, a pure example of the gratitude we hold for having a National Health Service that is free at the point of entry.
Testimonials represented the appreciation and highlighted just how much a difference the NHS can make to people. I believe there were elements that resonated with everyone. They certainly resonated with me. I couldn’t have more pride for being invited alongside some incredible staff, volunteers and friends.
The NHS has transformed my life, whether that is with regards to the 21 years as a service user or my personal journey through participation, patient voice and volunteering. That life that I lead now, wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for the NHS. I couldn’t be more grateful for those people who continuously push for patient voice to help the NHS to live to its expectation and to continue to evolve alongside us.

I pledge to continue to strive to represent and provide a platform for children and young people to have their say, for them to have the opportunity to develop just as I have. Happy 70th Birthday to the NHS!