Hospital workers raise money to buy sculpture to mark Covid efforts

A team of employees from a Dundee hospital have raised money for a permanent sculpture to be installed to commemorate Tayside’s Covid-19 efforts.

Staff from the Intensive Care Unit at Ninewells Hospital decided to take part in a sponsored walk, cycle or swim with a target of covering 2020 miles.

They raised enough money to purchase a sculpture of an owl, designed by artist Anthony Theakston, who created the piece for no profit.

The sculpture is now on show in Ninewells Hospital on a display plinth, designed and built by members of Carse of Gowrie Men’s Shed.

Staff member Joanne Leslie, who led the fundraising efforts, said: “We wanted to pay tribute to the people of Tayside and the hospital staff who were affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We did some research and found that owls are often recognised as a symbol of seeing through the darkness, leading to new beginnings.

“We felt this suited our fight against Covid-19 and would be a wonderful way to mark Tayside’s efforts.

“We would like to thank everyone who has helped us to reach our goal and we’re absolutely delighted to see the sculpture in place at Ninewells Hospital.”

NHS Tayside medical director, Dr Pamela Johnston, said: “Our teams worked incredibly hard throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and this sculpture is a beautiful lasting tribute which can be enjoyed by staff, patients and visitors.”

SYMBOL: Members of the NHS team at Ninewells Hospital with the owl sculpture, designed by Anthony Theakston.