Global Care, Local Heroes
WUTH Recognises Its Team on World Health Day
Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) recognises the dedication and expertise of its healthcare professionals this World Health Day.
Observed annually on 7 April, World Health Day highlights global health issues and celebrates the work of those who provide essential care to communities worldwide.
Dr James Gibson, an anaesthetist at Arrowe Park Hospital, is one such professional whose career has taken him from emergency rescues in Australia to critical care in the Wirral. His journey reflects the resilience and commitment required in medicine.
“I’ve wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember,” he said, explaining how he was drawn to the combination of science, teamwork, and communication. His passion for aviation led him to train as an anaesthetist and work with air ambulance services.
From his early days with the Scottish Air Ambulance to serving as a flying doctor in Australia, James worked in high-pressure situations that required confidence and adaptability.
“In the UK, we rely on teams and call for advice early. In Australia, I was the help,” he explained. The experience sharpened his ability to anticipate challenges, ensure equipment readiness, and build effective teams in high-pressure situations.
On the job, James faced dramatic scenarios.
“On my first shift after training, I was winched into a ravine in the Blue Mountains to assist a critically injured patient. It was a baptism of fire,” he recalled. Another memorable moment came on New Year’s Eve, when he flew out of Sydney Harbour to aid a critically injured patient in rural New South Wales, as fireworks illuminated the sky. “It was surreal and poignant—a reminder of the vital role doctors play, even during times of celebration.”
After returning to the UK, James said he valued the strong teamwork at Arrowe Park Hospital. “The support here in Wirral is something I’ll never take for granted,” he said. His experiences reinforced the importance of embracing challenges, and his advice to aspiring doctors was simple: “Follow your dreams. The skills and confidence you gain in diverse environments will shape you as a clinician and as a person.”
Nurses also play a vital role in delivering patient care. Sarah Owusw, a nurse in the endoscopy department at Arrowe Park Hospital, said her work was more than just a job—it was part of her family’s tradition of caring for others.
“I’ve always been drawn to helping people, and nursing felt like the perfect way to continue that,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see patients arrive feeling nervous and leave with a smile, knowing they’ve taken a positive step forward in their health.”
James and Sarah are just two examples of the diverse and committed individuals working across the Trust, each bringing unique experiences, skills, and perspectives that help shape patient care in Wirral.
“As we mark this day, we acknowledge not just our staff but healthcare workers across the NHS and beyond,” said Debs Smith, Chief People Officer for Wirral University Teaching Hospital and Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust. “Their expertise and commitment make a lasting difference in people’s lives.”
To learn more about working in the NHS or supporting your local hospital, visit https://www.wuth.nhs.uk/
