On Thursday 12^th May, Abbie Quinnen, dancer and burns survivor, returned to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust to visit the Burns Unit where she was cared for after a serious accident last year. The special visit was part of the Trust’s celebrations to mark International Nurses Day, where various events took place including musical performances for staff, organised by CW+.

During the visit, Abbie toured parts of the hospital and returned to the Burns Unit, where she chatted to staff and nurses about her experience there and the incredible work they do. Last year, Abbie spent nearly a week in the hospital, where she endured skin grafts, several operations and laser sessions. During her recovery, Abbie also took part in some therapy sessions to deal with the psychological trauma of the accident and encouraged boyfriend, professional dancer AJ Pritchard, to do the same.

Back in March, Abbie also fundraised for CW+ by running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for a second year running. She raised vital funds for the hospital’s Burns Unit to not only show her huge appreciation to the Unit and the treatment she received, but also to show how her self-confidence has grown since her accident and that she won’t let it stop her achieving what she wants to do. Abbie wanted to visit the hospital to show her gratitude and highlight the remarkable journey she has been on and how far she has come.

Commenting on the visit, Abbie said: “I absolutely loved visiting to the hospital for a special visit on International Nurses Day. It was so lovely to chat to the incredible nurses and staff on the Burns Unit, somewhere that will always be significant to me and where I was cared for so amazingly. It was important for me to show my appreciation because the care I received at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, both physical and mental, was incredible and I will always be so grateful to every member of staff who supported me.”

Isobel Glanville-Pearl, Deputy Director of Nursing at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, commented: “It was a pleasure to welcome Abbie back to Chelsea and Westminster on International Nurses Day when to celebrate our fantastic nursing staff. It was wonderful to show her around the unit and showcase the innovations in healthcare supported through Abbie’s fundraising. After the difficult ordeal Abbie went through, it is wonderful to see her doing so well and we’re so grateful for her ongoing support.”