Meet May’s LGT Star of the Month
Congratulations to Emma Gardiner, Paediatric Research Nurse at LGT, who has been named LGT’s Star of the Month for May in recognition of her dedication to centering the voices and needs of our paediatric sickle cell patients, their families, and carers.
Emma was nominated for the Star Player Award and here is why: "Emma always goes above and beyond for her patients and research studies. After opening a Paediatric Sickle Cell study at LGT, Improving Black Health Outcomes (IBHO), we secured funding from Genomics England to organise a special engagement event for our patients with sickle cell and their families/carers.
"Sickle cell is an under-researched condition, despite LGT having a large patient population. Emma was determined to create an event that was fun for our patients and informative and supportive for parents and carers. She helped with the funding bid, researched venues, contacted relevant organisations, and even reached out to a rapper, an artist, and an actor with lived experience of sickle cell, all of whom attended to inspire the children.
"On the day, Emma helped set up, spoke to families about the research, and enrolled new participants, doing all of this alongside her usual duties. Her passion for the long-term benefits for the children and their families helped reduce the isolation many of them feel.
"Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. One mother shared it was the first time she’d spoken to another parent of a child with sickle cell. Children played and connected in ways not possible during hospital visits, and organisations also formed valuable new links.
"The long-term impact of the event was significant and Emma made it happen. Though she avoids the spotlight, she deserves recognition for her dedication and compassion."
Emma Gardiner, Paediatric Research Nurse, explained: “I was thrilled to be nominated and win LGT Star of the Month. I’m grateful to my team and the judging panel. This recognition reflects not just my work, but the whole team’s effort to create research opportunities for our children and young people.
"I’m privileged to work with the research and development team and paediatric teams at UHL and QEH. Together, we aim to reach under-served patients and empower families by showing how research participation advances healthcare.
"Thank you to Research and Development management, colleagues, and the paediatric medical and nursing teams for their support and dedication. I’m fortunate to be part of such a wonderful team.”
Emma was congratulated by Kiki Bourcha, Engagement Manager from Healthwatch Greenwich, who was part of the judging panel. Emma was presented with a certificate, a £100 voucher from LGT, and a fruit basket generously donated by Hasan Er, who runs the fruit stall at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Healthwatch Greenwich said: "Healthwatch Greenwich is proud to nominate Emma Gardiner for the Star Player Award in recognition of her commitment to centering the voices and needs of Paediatric Sickle Cell patients, their families, and carers. Emma played a leading role in delivering a PPIE event that created a safe, supportive, and empowering space for children and families. She went beyond standard engagement by researching venues, reaching out to support organisations, and inviting artists and public figures with lived experience of Sickle Cell.
"Emma demonstrated a clear understanding of the barrier’s patients and families face, ensuring their voices influenced the event and its outcomes. This nomination recognises Emma for modelling an inclusive, community-led, and compassionate approach to patient engagement that Healthwatch Greenwich believes must be at the centre of all care."