The faithful husband of a Tameside Hospital patient suffering from a brain inflammation has created a paradise garden outside the ward to thank the staff who have helped her.
Gardening-guru Eric Woodhead, 80, decided to brighten up the courtyard outside Ward 44 where his 77-year-old wife Beryl was recovering for eight weeks after suffering encephalitis and complications following knee operations.
Eric wanted to thank staff who was caring for his wife of 57 years and took cuttings from his own garden which have flourished under his care, including varieties such as roses, violas and geraniums. Nursing staff donated the decorative pots, ornaments, solar lights and compost.
Eric said: “A lot of the plants are from my own garden and I just did the little every day that I am capable of.
“I entered the ward as a stranger but I’m a friend now.”
Beryl said: “It’s a really lovely thing to do. I’m so proud of Eric but then I’ve been proud of him all these years.
Eric, a former engineer and trades union official, has even offered to come back to Ward 44 to help maintain the suntrap.
Ward 44’s Sister Gail Brierley said: “I have had lots of patients contact me to thank Eric for the garden. It’s given them something to talk about and it helps remind them of their gardens at home as they still get the sight and smell of being outdoors.
“All the staff appreciate the hard work Eric has put into providing a lovely garden for all our patients.”
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