These NHS-themed balloon sculptures have been bringing a smile to staff and patients alike at Manchester’s Nightingale Hospital as the ongoing Covid-19 effort begins to wind down.
Balloons have been something of a theme during lockdown, with fun Zoom backgrounds and elaborate, uplifting NHS displays making them more visible to consumers than ever before.
“I made these balloon models to lighten the mood at the Nightingale Hospital as we are now starting to wind down, with patient numbers reducing,” said Beverley Heyworth, who co-owns Blue Rose Gifts and Balloons in Heywood (UK) with her husband John.
Right at the beginning of lockdown, Beverley – once she had recovered from the Covid-19 virus herself – volunteered to help on the NHS frontline as part of the team setting up and running Manchester’s Nightingale Hospital.
“Prior to opening the shop, I ran a huge warehouse and felt my logistical skills would be useful, if nothing else,” Beverley told PartyWorldwide.net’s sister publication PG Buzz.
In addition to the three days a week she has spent working at the hospital, Bev and John have also been dedicating three days a week to working 12 hour shifts at a Covid-19 testing centre based at Manchester City’s Ethiad Stadium.
“We adapted very fast and I am so proud to have been a part of the team. We wanted to do our bit and earn a bit while on lockdown. It has been amazing to be a part of it all, even though it was not the best of circumstances,” Beverley revealed. “There has been a lot of sadness, but triumphs too.”
In addition to her NHS frontline work, Beverley also kept up with the balloon orders she has received from the shop’s retail customers. “I was always determined not to let our regulars down, or they might not be there when we re-open,” she said. “And I need them!”
Blue Rose Gifts and Balloons opened for business yesterday (Monday 15 June), will full PPE measures in place, including screens, sanitation points and markings on the floor. “It’s adapt or close,” said Beverley. “We have to do our bit to protect our staff and customers.”
