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Highland cow and Northern Lights murals in Dr Gray's Hospital radiology department will ease anxious patients


By Chris Saunderson

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ANY anxiety felt by Moray patients in hospital for x-rays and ultrasound scans could be eased by two stunning wall murals.

Enjoying the mural of the Highland cow, from left, Megan Mcgowan, (radiographer), Morag Howard (radiology site superintendent), Mhairi Maclean, (radiographer) and Laura Griffiths, (radiographer).
Enjoying the mural of the Highland cow, from left, Megan Mcgowan, (radiographer), Morag Howard (radiology site superintendent), Mhairi Maclean, (radiographer) and Laura Griffiths, (radiographer).

The radiology department at Dr Gray's Hospital has been transformed by local wildlife presenter and filmmaker, Will Hall.

One of the murals features a Highland cow and the other captures the Northern Lights over Burghead.

Will said: “Scotland has the most beautiful landscapes and awe inspiring wildlife in the country, it’s so fantastic to see these images on display.”

“This project is very close to my heart. Hospitals can be a scary and daunting place and I really hope visitors can enjoy the wonders of our world.”

The art project was made possible through a donation of £5988 from the NHS Grampian Charity. The funds were used to commission the murals – turning the once clinical walls into vibrant canvases.

There are also plans to transform the paediatric waiting area in a similar fashion.

Lisa Duthie, NHS Grampian Charity lead, said: "We know getting treatment in hospital can be a scary experience, no matter what age you are.

The stunning Northern Lights over Burghead, from left, Dr Rafik (consultant radiologist), Morag Howard (radiology site superintendent), Christopher Dafter (health care support worker), Jennifer Monkhouse, (sonographer/radiographer) and Struan Wilkie (consultant radiologist).
The stunning Northern Lights over Burghead, from left, Dr Rafik (consultant radiologist), Morag Howard (radiology site superintendent), Christopher Dafter (health care support worker), Jennifer Monkhouse, (sonographer/radiographer) and Struan Wilkie (consultant radiologist).

"Decor like this can play an important role in helping to make the clinical environment less intimidating for patients, so they can focus on their treatment and recovery.

"Creating comfortable, welcoming spaces for patients is a key priority for the charity, so we were thrilled when the radiology team approached us with their idea and the designs. We think the finished rooms will provide a much more welcoming environment for people."

Radiology site superintendent Morag Howard added: "These murals have truly transformed our department. They not only provide a visually stimulating environment for both our staff and the people we care for, but also play a significant role in our efforts to create a more relaxing atmosphere in the radiology department."

For children undergoing imaging procedures, the murals offer a welcome distraction from what could be a stressful experience into something a bit less scary.

Morag added: "The response has been fantastic. The murals have injected a new sense of vibrancy into the department, and we are thrilled to see the positive impact they are having on the well-being of everyone who walks through our doors."

Originally from Hampshire, Will moved to Scotland in 2021 in search of adventure and wildlife. He has a degree in

animal biology and conservation with passion for nature and wildlife. Website.

https://willhallwildlife.co.uk/


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