Committed, selfless, compassionate and inspirational are some of the words that spring to mind when people think of their colleague Lisa Opala.
As a hospital chaplain Lisa makes a difference to every patient, carer and staff member she connects with.
Since joining the trust as a volunteer in 2016, and gaining employment in 2017, she has provided a listening ear and emotional and spiritual support to many patients, relatives and hospital staff.
“I love my job; I like to think we’re making a difference,” said Lisa.
“I really like the saying ‘we are all just walking each other home’. Clinicians focus on healing the physical body, the role of a chaplain looks towards our spiritual and emotional needs as well.”
For her work during the coronavirus pandemic Lisa received a letter of thanks from the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Johanna Ropner and a special nomination to attend a garden party from the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell.
Despite watching the face of the chaplaincy change every day, Lisa stepped forward to continue to support the trust’s patients, many of which were isolated from their loved ones.
On multiple occasions she stayed with numerous patients until they passed, never wavering but constantly providing a sense of peace and calm for everyone.
“We were not just called on to tend sick bodies, but troubled minds and souls too,” said Lisa.
To this day, Lisa continues to visit many patients long after their discharge from hospital, leaving them feeling happier for being around her.
Debi Mckeown, interim nurse workforce lead, said: “Lisa can make a sad situation a little brighter for everyone involved.
“Her ability to make someone feel like the most important person in the world is remarkable, she’s dedicated to making people feel listened to and to feel safe around her.
“She will always shy away from praise saying “it’s just my job” but we all know it’s so much more than that. She is our hospital chaplain, but she is also our teacher, our listening ear, our shoulder to lean and cry on but most importantly she is our friend.”