Theatre Support Worker and Healthcare Assistant Sonji Shepherd from Leicester Royal Infirmary has won a Cavell Star Award for going above and beyond for her colleagues.
Colleague Joanne Davey explains why Sonji is a worthy winner.
“When I first arrived 6 years ago I was met by a wonderful smile and positive welcome to my new job. Sonji as been by my side ever since as a teacher, mentor and colleague. Sonji always comes to work with positivity and a smile to help the day start well, she is a font of knowledge in her job role and all new starters learn so much from her to help them grow.
“Sonji has a huge heart and is a very humble lady who would give you so much if you needed something. All of the staff benefit from a little Sonji smile! She not only supports patients in theatre but also on wards with nursing support. She gives so much to the NHS, she is a star in all her roles.”
Sonji reacted to winning her Cavell Star Award.
“I felt so overjoyed and wanted to cry, it was such a surprise! It was so nice to be recognised for what I do and I felt very touched knowing that people recognise the difference I’m making to others. I love talking to and caring for patients and seeing them get better until they can be discharged. The most important thing is I get to help people and as my mum always said ‘you never give to receive and always do things with your whole heart 100%’.
“I am always so welcomed into every team I’m in and its always a pleasure working with my colleagues. I am lucky to have made many friends along the way through good times as well as challenging times.”