A Paisley jeweller has helped turn the tragedy of the pandemic into a grand gesture of thanks to RAH staff, by selling hundreds of specially-designed necklaces.
McKays Jeweller’s has been a Paisley institution since 1946 and owner/manager Lesley Elder felt that the business needed to mark this historic episode with a donation to staff at the town’s hospital.
Thanks to her efforts, the store has raised £3,000, which will be donated to the staff R&R Hub at the RAH.
She said: “So many people have lost loved ones this year and this led me to design a necklace for my close friend who lost her dad to during lockdown. I soon realised that lots of other people might want one too and sure enough when I put the idea on Facebook, there was lots of interest.
“I wanted to do something to thank the hard working and dedicated staff from the RAH who have done so much this year. You need to look after the people who look after you – and this was the perfect way to say thanks.
“It’s been such a testing time for us at the shop and we just needed something to stop us feeling so helpless during this hardest of times. All the profits from sales of the collection have gone to the NHS Covid-19 Appeal in honour of our loved ones and to celebrate the selflessness of our NHS and frontline heroes.”
Marie Farrell, NHSGGC’s Clyde Director said: “When the pandemic hit, staff welfare became even more important and we quickly established R&R hubs where they could take a break from the intensity of the situation. This included one at the RAH.
“As the situation improved, staff fed back that they would like to see these continue in some form or another. That’s why this amazingly generous donation is so important and will help us keep that promise to staff. The idea for the jewellery collection was such a thoughtful one and it’s almost like the donation is from the whole community. I want to send my heartfelt thanks from all the staff.”