Letters to Andrew: Gary

Editors Note: The Foundation has now officially been born. To introduce ourselves, the trustees, we decided to each write a letter to Andrew to talk to him and tell him what we’re up to. These letters have made us laugh, cry, to feel inspired to work together and to enjoy what we’re doing. We hope that you can glean something from them of what we’ve experienced in losing Andrew and why we are wanting to make a go of The Andrew Gidney Foundation.

Dear Andrew,

I know we never met but I feel privileged to be a Trustee of the charity foundation that has been set up in your memory. I can really see the potential of the charity work that is just beginning with the Andrew Gidney Foundation, and I am committed to supporting this in any way I can. Over the last few years we have started to see real transformation happening in mental health services in Oldham, and it has been, and will continue to be, shaped and influenced by people’s experiences. Your story has been part of this.

Working in the NHS is often busy and demanding, and it is important to keep sight of what matters, that is understanding people’s needs and providing the right care. To do this, we all need to listen more, to value people’s experience, and learn. Both personally and professionally, being a part of this inspiring work serves as valuable reminder of this and I am looking forward to bringing about positive change.

Sincerely, Gary