Groote Schuur Hospital Appreciation Wednesday hero: Russell Stubbs

Russel Stubbs who works as an Administration Clerk in the Finance Department is today’s Appreciation Wednesday hero at Groote Schuur Hospital. The campaign seeks to give appreciation to ordinary heroes who are inspiring others during the Covid-19 pandemic.

With 35 years of service at the Hospital, Russel has had to adapt to the Covid-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, he worked as a case manager in the medical aid section and was then deployed to the Corona testing centre on 20 March.

“The change for me has been easy since I am still doing what I love just in a different area. Although it is in the front line, I feel safe. I have discussed this change with my wife, who is a nurse, and we agreed I can go ahead and make that difference,” explains Russel.

Patient care is what motivates him to come to work and make a difference in the fight against Covid-19 and having colleagues whom uplift him every day.

According to Russel, the hospital’s management has been very supportive to him and his colleagues during this challenging time. “I feel part of everything that is happening in the testing centre; I’m also part of a chat group that includes management. I thus feel part of what is happening in the testing centre at the hospital. I also feel safe due to the PPE [personal protective equipment] that I am provided with daily,” he adds.

As this an anxious time for everyone, Russel echoes that it is important that people adhere to the calling to be safe and wear a mask. “This virus is real. Be wise and sanitise. Keep your physical distancing, it is important.”

Groote Schuur Hospital is proud to be having staff such as Russel who demonstrate a positive attitude towards providing patient-centered care. Their commitment shows how important it is to all do our bit to help get us through this crisis. The hospital is encouraging people to visit its Heroes of Groote Schuur Hospital Facebook page to leave a message of support to Russel and his colleagues.